Frequency of Anatomical Variations in Appendix Position in Appendectomy

Abstract

Objective: To determine the age and gender distribution of various anatomical positions of the appendix in patients underwent appendectomy.

Methodology: This descriptive cross-sectional study was done at Farooq Teaching Hospital and Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital, Islamabad , over a two years period from March 2021 to March 2022, involving 350 appendectomy patients. The anatomical location of appendix was analyzed in patients underwent appendectomy across various age groups and genders. The appendix length was measured from its base to tip using a nylon thread. The length of thread was measured using a vernier caliper. The appendix external diameter was measured at its widest point using vernier caliper.

Results: The patient’s average age was 36.6 years, with 58% males and 42% females. There were more males than females in the study. The appendix anatomical positions were observed as follows: retrocecal was most common, found in 50% of cases, followed by pelvic in 26%, retroileal in 10%, subcecal in 7.4%, paracecal in 6%, and subhepatic in 0.6% of cases. The highest incidence was observed in 21 to 40 years age group (56.6%). The association was observed significantly among appendix length and various age groups. The mean appendix length was 58 mm in males and 52 mm in females. The mean appendix external diameter was 75 mm in males and 69 mm in females.

Conclusion: The retrocecal position was the most frequently observed location in this study. Given that appendix is the organ in the abdomen with the greatest variability, these findings are valuable for surgeons’ performing appendectomy