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Antibiotics vs. Surgery: What's the Best Treatment for Appendicitis?
Published: May 08, 2024
When it comes to treating appendicitis, there's an ongoing debate: should you go under the knife or try antibiotics first? Let's explore both options.
The Traditional Approach: Surgery
For over a century, surgery has been the go-to treatment for appendicitis. Known as an appendectomy, this procedure involves the removal of the appendix. It is effective in eliminating the risk of recurrence and complications but comes with the usual risks associated with surgery.
A New Challenger: Antibiotics
Recent studies have shown that antibiotics can be an effective treatment for uncomplicated appendicitis. This approach can lead to fewer missed workdays and a faster recovery, but there's a risk of recurrence and the possibility of needing surgery later.
Factors to Consider
Choosing between antibiotics and surgery depends on various factors such as the severity of symptoms, patient age, and overall health. Shared decision-making between patient and doctor is crucial to choose the best treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always, antibiotics might be an option for some patients with uncomplicated appendicitis.
Surgery risks include infection, bleeding, and complications from anesthesia.
Yes, potential side effects of antibiotics include allergic reactions and antibiotic resistance.
Key Takeaways
Choosing between antibiotics and surgery requires careful consideration of personal health factors and medical advice.
References
- CODA Collaborative, Flum DR, Davidson GH, et al. A Randomized Trial Comparing Antibiotics with Appendectomy for Appendicitis. N Engl J Med 2020; 383:1907.
- Salminen P, Sippola S, Haijanen J, et al. Antibiotics versus placebo in adults with CT-confirmed uncomplicated acute appendicitis (APPAC III): randomized double-blind superiority trial. Br J Surg 2022; 109:503.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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