Twice perforated stump appendicitis: a case report

Pan Afr Med J. 2022 Sep 27:43:43. doi: 10.11604/pamj.2022.43.43.37149. eCollection 2022.

Abstract

Stump appendicitis is an acute inflammation of the residual appendix and one of the rare complications after appendectomy. Stump appendicitis is an under-reported and poorly defined condition related to obstruction and inflammation of the residual appendix after an appendectomy, usually by a fecolith. It remains a clinical challenge because of delayed diagnosis and subsequent treatment with increased morbidity or mortality. Herein, we describe the case of a 42-year-old male who presented with periumbilical pain with progression to generalized abdominal pain and signs of peritonitis 14 months post appendectomy. An exploratory laparotomy revealed an inflamed, non-gangrenous perforated appendices stump. We discuss the challenges in the diagnosis and management thereof.

Keywords: Appendicitis; case report; exploratory laparotomy; stump appendicitis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Pain / complications
  • Adult
  • Appendectomy / adverse effects
  • Appendicitis* / diagnosis
  • Appendicitis* / etiology
  • Appendicitis* / surgery
  • Appendix* / surgery
  • Fecal Impaction*
  • Humans
  • Inflammation
  • Male