Stump appendicitis: a comprehensive review of literature

Am Surg. 2006 Feb;72(2):162-6.

Abstract

Appendectomy for appendicitis is one of the most common procedures performed in the United States. Residual tissue left after an initial appendectomy risks the development of stump appendicitis. A comprehensive review of the English-language literature revealed 36 reported cases of stump appendicitis. Typically, patients present with signs and symptoms similar to acute appendicitis; however, due to prior surgery, the diagnosis is difficult and the rate of appendiceal stump perforation is extremely high. Herein, we present a case of a 32-year-old female presenting with right lower quadrant pain, nausea, and fever 5 months after laparoscopic appendectomy. Upon surgery, an appendiceal stump was discovered.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Appendectomy*
  • Appendicitis / diagnosis
  • Appendicitis / etiology*
  • Appendicitis / surgery*
  • Appendix / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Postoperative Complications*
  • Recurrence
  • Reoperation
  • Risk Factors
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed