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Can Appendicitis Be Treated Without Surgery? What 10 Years of Data Shows

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Antibiotic Therapy for Uncomplicated Acute Appendicitis Ten-Year Follow-Up of the APPAC Randomized Clinical Trial.DOI 10.1001jama.2025.25921

Appendicitis is a common emergency. Many people are told they need surgery to remove the appendix. This operation is called an appendectomy.A long-term study followed patients for 10 years to see if antibiotics alone can be a safe option.The results give a clear picture.About 6 out of 10 patients who took antibiotics did not need surgery even after 10 years. Around 4 out of 10 had appendicitis again and eventually needed surgery.
This means antibiotics can work well for many people, but not for everyone.There is more.
Patients who had surgery had more complications over time. Around 1 in 4 people in the surgery group faced issues. In the antibiotic group, less than 1 in 10 hadcomplications.Quality of life was similar in both groups. Patients felt just as healthy whether they had surgery or took antibiotics.This is usually decided after a scan confirms the condition is not severe.
Doctors may suggest:
⦿ Antibiotics first, with close follow-up
⦿ Surgery if symptoms return
⦿ Immediate surgery if the condition is complicated
It is important to understand the trade-off. Antibiotics can help avoid surgery at first, but there is a chance of recurrence.Speak with your doctor about what suits your situation. Your age, health, and symptoms all matter.Early treatment and regular follow-up help preventcomplications and keep you safe.

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Dr Harsh Shah - GI & HPB Oncosurgeon in Ahmeadbad
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