What is the mainstay treatment for a patient with uncomplicated appendicitis?

The primary treatment for uncomplicated appendicitis is an appendectomy. This surgical procedure involves the removal of the appendix and is considered the definitive treatment for this condition. The rationale for opting for an appendectomy stems from the following important considerations:

1. Definitive Resolution: An appendectomy effectively removes the source of inflammation and prevents further complications, such as perforation or abscess formation, which can occur if the condition is left untreated.

2. Symptom Resolution: Patients typically experience rapid relief of symptoms following the removal of the inflamed appendix. This provides a more permanent solution than other treatment modalities.

3. Recurrence Prevention: While non-surgical options such as antibiotics may provide short-term relief, they do not eliminate the risk of appendicitis recurring. Surgical intervention completely resolves the issue and eliminates the risk of reoccurrence.

In recent years, there has been interest in non-operative management with antibiotics alone for certain patients. However, this approach is generally considered for specific cases, such as those with mild symptoms or those refusing surgery. The consensus in standard practice remains that for uncomplicated appendicitis, an appendectomy is the mainstay treatment, given its effectiveness in providing a definitive cure.