Abstract / Summary
Management of acute appendicitis has undergone a fundamental transformation the past two decades, with discussions focusing on operative versus nonoperative management. This review seeks to synthesize the most current evidence from the past decade across several key domains currently shaping contemporary treatment. Antibiotics are a viable alternative to appendectomy in uncomplicated acute appendicitis, although the management of complicated appendicitis continues to be a complex multifactorial decision. Robotic surgery offers an exciting new tool, although more studies are needed to elicit its benefit for acute appendicitis. The shifting paradigm in the management of acute appendicitis, including antibiotics and minimally invasive surgical techniques, continues to offer an exciting shift for a more patient centered approach for this common surgical emergency.