Outcomes of Antibiotic Therapy for Uncomplicated Appendicitis in Pregnancy

Objective

The aim of the present study is to determine the feasibility and safety of antibiotics for uncomplicated simple appendicitis in pregnancy.

Method

We conducted a 6-year prospective observational study on 20 pregnant women in whom uncomplicated simple appendicitis (appendiceal diameter ≤11 mm and with no signs of appendicoliths, perforation, or abscess) was radiologically verified and managed with a 4-day course of antibiotics. Treatment failure rate, defined as the need for an appendectomy during hospitalization and recurrence in the follow-up period (median 25 months), and maternal or fetal complications during the pregnancy were evaluated.

Results

Mean age of patients was 33.4 years, and gestational age was 17.8 weeks. Three patients failed to respond to antibiotic therapy during hospitalization and underwent subsequent appendectomy (2 suppurative and 1 perforated appendicitis). There was 1 wound infection postoperatively. During follow-up, 2 patients during their ongoing pregnancy experienced recurrence at 3 and 6 months post-treatment, and a new course of antibiotics was determined. Patients also experienced recurrence at 8 and 10 months post-treatment and underwent appendectomy. Treatment failure occurred in 5 patients (25%) with no fetal complications during the pregnancy.

Conclusions

Antibiotic therapy for uncomplicated appendicitis in pregnancy may be a feasible treatment option without severe maternal and fetal complications.