Acute Appendicitis; Metronidazole as Monotherapy and Early Intake of Oral Fluids:

Abstract

In acute appendicitis role of monotherapy still needs appreciation where there is no perforation or abscess formation. In these patients when a straightforward appendectomy has been performed early intake of oral fluids reduce patients stay in hospitals. A total number of 40 patients divided into two groups. A and B. Group A received one preoperative and two postoperative metronidazole doses and Group B received tripple therapy preoperative and for 72 hours postoperatively. Group A patients were started with oral fluids 6 hours after operation but in Group B oral fluids were started after 24 hours after listening bowel sounds. Results were same in both groups with reduction of hospital stay in Group A patients. No wound infection or complication seen in either group. Monotherapy with metronidazole is as effective as tripple therapy and early intake of oral funds can reduce hospital stay.