Retrospective analysis of endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy in management of acute appendicitis in China

Objective To evaluate the safety and efficacy of endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy (ERAT) by analyzing application of the technique at different centers in China. Methods Data of patients who underwent ERAT at 8 tertiary hospitals in China from 2009 to 2014 were retrospectively studied for the success rate of cannulation, clinical success rate, hospital stay, complications and recurrent rate. Results There were 107 in 118 patients(91%)whose appendiceal orifice was successfully cannulated. Acute appendicitis(AA) was excluded in 7 patients. One hundred (including 6 patients with peri-appendiceal abscess) had definite diagnosis of AA and received ERAT. The mean time of abdominal pain and abdominal tenderness relief was 12 hours (6-72 hours) and 24 hours (24-72 hours) respectively. The clinical success rate was 97%. The mean time of hospital stay was 3 days (2-4 days). The rate of complications was 2%. During the mean time of follow-up (12 months), the recurrent rate was 7%. Conclusion ERAT is safe and effective for the diagnosis and treatment of acute appendicitis and peri-appendiceal abscess. Key words: Appendicitis; Surgical procedures, minimally invasive; Endoscopic retrograde appendicitis theray