Acute appendicetomy is better choice for appendicular mass

Abstract

Objective: To compare the cost effectiveness, hospital stay and morbidity in each type of management of appendicular mass i.e. early surgical intervention and conservative management. Design: A randomized comparative study. Place and duration: South Surgical Ward, Mayo Hospital Lahore from July, 1999 to January, 2001. Patients and Methods: 40 patients were included dividing in two equal groups. Group A patients were explored early and group B patients were managed conservatively. Cost effectiveness, hospital stay and morbidity were determined in each group. Results: Mean hospital stay was 2.85 days (2-4 days) in group A and 6.25 days (5-8 days) in group B (p value< 0.001). Mean expenditure in group A was Rs.1255 and Rs. 2183.75 in group B (p value < 0.001). 100% patients in group A got complete pain relief within three days while it took 7 days for 90% of patients in group B (p value<0.001). Oral fluids were started earlier in group A as compared to group B (p value<0.05).