Nonoperative management of acute appendicitis in children

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of conservative treatment of noncomplicated acute appendicitis in children in our institute. Patients and methods: This prospective study was conducted on children with noncomplicated acute appendicitis diagnosed by means of clinical, laboratory, and radiological investigations admitted for conservative treatment and checked in a regular manner to detect and manage complications. The study was conducted during the period between March 2015 and February 2016. Results: Thirty-nine patients with noncomplicated acute appendicitis, with a mean age of 7.8 years, were admitted for conservative management. Twenty-five (64%) patients improved on medical treatment and were discharged home within 2–3 days and 14 (36%) patients required surgical intervention. Conclusion: Most of the children who were managed with antibiotics for noncomplicated acute appendicitis improved and the risks of appendectomy were avoided. Therefore, we should not embark on appendectomy in children with noncomplicated appendicitis and imply the possibility of medical treatment.