Objective:

To evaluate long-term outcomes of antibiotic therapy versus appendectomy for uncomplicated acute appendicitis.

Approach:

Key Findings:

• 38% of patients treated with antibiotics experienced a confirmed recurrence of appendicitis.
• 44% of patients initially treated with antibiotics ultimately underwent appendectomy during the follow-up.
• More than half of patients treated with antibiotics avoided surgery over 10 years.
• Cumulative complication rate was lower in the antibiotic group compared to the appendectomy group.
• Quality of life and patient satisfaction were similar between both treatment groups.

Interpretation:

Antibiotic therapy remains a viable long-term option for selected patients with uncomplicated acute appendicitis, with a significant proportion avoiding surgery and experiencing low complication rates.

Limitations:

• Study focused on carefully selected patients, limiting generalizability.
• Potential for delayed diagnosis of appendiceal tumors in nonoperative management.

Conclusion:

Long-term results support the use of antibiotics as a treatment option for uncomplicated acute appendicitis, emphasizing shared decision-making between physicians and patients.

Sources:

• JAMA Network
Source

Based on findings from:

Appendicitis Care: A Decade Later

Conexiant News Staff. Conexiant, 2026.

https://conexiant.com/gastroenterology/articles/appendicitis-care-a-decade-later/

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