Comparing surgery and non-surgery for complicated appendicitis

Operative Versus Non-Operative Management for Appendicitis With Abscess or Phlegmon

NA · Yale University · NCT04168866

This study is testing whether surgery or non-surgery works better for adults with complicated appendicitis that includes an abscess or phlegmon.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment180 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorYale University (other)
Locations1 site (New Haven, Connecticut)
Trial IDNCT04168866 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate whether early surgical intervention is more effective than non-surgical management for adults with CT-confirmed complicated appendicitis that includes an abscess or phlegmon. The research will involve a multi-center approach in the United States, allowing patients to choose between operative and non-operative treatments. The study builds on previous findings from Finland that suggested surgical management may lead to better outcomes, such as shorter hospital stays and fewer complications. By conducting this trial, the investigators hope to provide clearer guidance on the best treatment options for this challenging condition.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults diagnosed with complicated appendicitis with a CT scan showing an abscess or phlegmon larger than 2 cm.

Not a fit: Patients who have received antibiotic therapy for more than 24 hours prior to enrollment or those with severe complications such as septic shock may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment protocols for patients with complicated appendicitis, potentially reducing complications and hospital stays.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies, particularly a randomized controlled trial in Finland, have shown success with similar approaches, although this study aims to provide high-quality evidence in the United States.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1\. Complicated appendicitis with presumed perforation on (computer tomography) CT scan AND phlegmon or abscess greater than 2 centimeter (cm).

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Antibiotic therapy greater than 24 hours prior to considering for enrollment.
2. Attempted drainage before randomization
3. Pregnancy
4. Antibiotic allergy requiring the use of something other than a beta-lactam or quinolone based therapy.
5. Previous major intra-abdominal surgery by laparotomy
6. Hospitalization within 2 weeks of randomization
7. Presence of septic shock on admission.
8. Mechanical ventilation
9. Acute renal failure requiring dialysis

Where this trial is running

New Haven, Connecticut

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Appendicitis

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.