Are Appendix Weight and Length Related to Inflammatory Parameters and Alvarado Score in Acute Appendicitis?

INTRODUCTION: We aimed to investigate if appendix weight and length affects clinical presentation.
METHODS: This study prospectively enrolled 50 patients who were operated with the diagnosis of acute appendicitis. The appendix material was weighed in milligram. Then, the diameter of the appendix was measured in millimeter from its widest point using a surgical ruler. The length of the appendix was measured in millimeter using the same ruler. As appendix length may have influenced its weight, weight in milligram per millimeter was used for standardization. The obtained value was expressed as the unit weight (mg/mm).
In order to make a comparison by the obtained unit weight, the patients were divided into two groups.

RESULTS: Among 50 patients enrolled in the present study, 24 (48%) were men and 26 (52%) were women. The mean CRP level of the study population was 29.4 (3-160). The mean appendix diameter measured with ultrasonography at the preoperative period was 8.49 mm (range 6-13 mm), and the mean appendix diameter measured with a ruler at the postoperative period was 10.3 mm (range 8-20 mm). There was approximately a 2 mm difference between these measurements which were made from the widest points.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: In conclusion, it was found that the unit weight of the appendix increased proportionally to the CRP level. The appendix would be more edematous, have a greater diameter and weight, and be more likely to perforate in patients with a higher unit weight.