Long-term effects of appendectomy in humans: is it the optimal management of appendicitis?. (3rd June 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Song, Ming-Yang; Ullah, Saif; Yang, Hui-Yu; Ahmed, Md Robin; Saleh, Abd-Arrahman; Liu, Bing-Rong
• Is Part Of: Expert review of gastroenterology & hepatology. Volume 15:Number 6(2021)
• Page Start: 657
• Page End: 664
• Publication Date: 2021-06-03
• Subjects: Appendicitis -- appendectomy -- endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy -- inflammatory bowel disease -- colorectal cancer -- gallstones -- parkinson's disease -- cardiovascular disease; Gastroenterology -- Periodicals; Liver -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 616.3
• DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2021.1868298
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1747-4124

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Appendectomy remains the gold standard for treating uncomplicated and complicated appendicitis. However, the vermiform appendix may play a significant role in the immune system (secondary immune function) and maintain a reservoir of the normal microbiome for the human body. The aim of this study was to summarize the long-term effects after appendectomy and discuss whether appendectomy is suitable for all appendicitis patients. Areas covered: A comprehensive and unbiased literature search was performed in PubMed. The terms 'appendix, ' 'appendicitis, ' 'appendectomy, ' and 'endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy' were searched in the title and/or abstract. This review summarizes the long-term effects of appendectomy on some diseases in humans and describes three methods including appendectomy, medical treatment, and an 'organ-sparing' technique, named endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy (ERAT) to treat appendicitis. Expert opinion: Appendectomy remains the first-line therapy for appendicitis. The patient's problem is appendix, not appendicitis. If we treat appendicitis, the problem should be resolved. During COVID-19, an initial antibiotic treatment of mild appendicitis represents a promising strategy. For patients who are worried about the long-term adverse effect after appendectomy and have a strong desire to preserve the appendix and are aware of the risk of appendicitis recurrence, medical treatment, or ERAT could be proposed.