SP4.1.1 An Audit of Negative Appendicectomy Rates at the Borders General Hospital

Abstract Aims Appendicitis is the most common abdominal surgery emergency globally with 50,000 acute appendicectomies in UK annually. Despite improvements diagnostic techniques, negative still occur. We aimed to audit local results of appendicectomy rates (NAR) against 2012 National Appendicectomy Audit which recommends an NAR <20%. Methods Retrospective data patients who underwent from January 2016-October 2021 was collected using electronic records. Patients elective appendicectomies, were not suspected appendicitis or did have pathology excluded. Data on patient demographics, surgical approach, and radiological investigations prior surgery. Results A total 518 included. 54.1% (280) male 45.9% (238) female. The age range 5–87 years average 36.4 years. 48.9% (253) had CTs 98.4% reporting appendicitis, 16.2% (84) ultrasounds 50% 34.9% (181) no imaging Of those imaged 12.8% (6.3% CT, 32.1% ultrasound) scan 17.1% (p=0.188). 26.2% (135) open, 69.5% (358) laparoscopic 4.3% (22) converted. Pathology showed that 14.3% (74) appendixes 85.7% (444) positive. Males a lower 11.1% vs females 18.1% (p=<0.05). Conclusions Our result shows we are working within recommended national guidelines <20% NAR. higher than males. use addition clinical evaluation helps reduce NAR, CT being more effective ultrasound.