Appendectomy in the gynecological setting: intraoperative findings and corresponding histopathology

Gynecol Obstet Invest. 2011;71(3):189-92. doi: 10.1159/000317270. Epub 2010 Dec 14.

Abstract

Background/aims: To evaluate the intraoperative findings and corresponding histopathology associated with appendectomies performed during benign gynecological surgery.

Methods: Retrospective case series.

Results: Twenty-two appendectomies were performed from 2002 through 2008 at Hutzel Women's Hospital due to intraoperative findings of inflammation or erythema (n = 8), periappendiceal adhesions (n = 5), injury to the appendix or mesoappendix (n = 2), fecalith (n = 2), dilation of the appendix (n = 1), adnexal mass involving the appendix (n = 1), and suspected lipoma (n = 1). Final pathology was consistent with significant findings such as acute inflammation, periappendicitis, and adhesions or endometriosis involving the appendix in 68.2% of cases.

Conclusion: In the benign gynecological setting, appendectomies were primarily performed due to inflammation or erythema. In the majority of cases, significant appendiceal pathology was confirmed.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Appendectomy*
  • Appendicitis / pathology*
  • Appendicitis / surgery*
  • Appendix / pathology*
  • Appendix / surgery*
  • Endometriosis / diagnosis
  • Endometriosis / pathology
  • Endometriosis / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Young Adult