Five thousand and thirty four appendectomies. Results

Study aim: The aim of this retrospective study is to report a seriesof 5034 appendectomies performed by two surgeons working in theprivate sector. Emphasis is put on the homogeneity of this study.The role of ultrasonography and computed tomography was evaluated.Morbidity was carefully examined and the means to lower itas well.Material and methods: 5034 appendectomies were performedwith the open technique apart from a short series of 93 performedthrough laparoscopy. Two periods were studied and compared.In our second period ultrasonography, computed tomography, andlaparoscopy were introduced.Results: In the second period fewer appendixes qualified of normalwere operated on and more complicated forms were observed.Help in diagnosis of ultrasonography and computed tomographywas valuable but clinical examination remained essential.Morbidity was lowered. There was one death in our series (ninetytwoyear old woman)Conclusion: Clinical examination remains essential in the diagnosisof appendicitis. Ultrasonography and computed tomography arehowever of valuable interest.A careful surgical technique is essential to lower morbidity.Laparoscopy although introduced early in our practice, did notimpose itself as our basic technique.