More Evidence Against Appendectomy at the Time of a Ladd Procedure

It may be time that our specialty recognizes that the vermiform appendix is not just a rudimentary organ without function. Many studies have suggested its importance for gastrointestinal health and as a unique part of the gut associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) that is likely different from lymphoid tissue in other parts of the intestine. [1] This notion has been further substantiated by a recent article, “Children with appendectomy have increased risk of future sepsis, real world data in Taiwan.” [2] The group in Taiwan applied a nationwide population-based cohort to assess whether children who received appendectomy were at increased risk of subsequent sepsis during their lifetime.