To cut or not to cut: a trial questions routine appendectomy for normal appendices

NCT ID NCT06000020

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Nordsjaellands Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 10, 2026 · Last updated Aug 11, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at people who undergo laparoscopic surgery for suspected appendicitis but are found to have a normal appendix. It compares two approaches: removing the appendix anyway (routine appendectomy) or leaving it in place. The goal is to see which approach leads to fewer future surgeries for appendicitis and fewer complications. By analyzing a large regional group of patients, the study aims to guide surgeons on the best course of action when the appendix looks healthy.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Laparoscopic appendectomy (surgical removal of the appendix)
What this could lead to: If removing a normal appendix proves better, it could reduce the risk of future appendicitis-related surgeries. If not, leaving it in place may avoid unnecessary surgery.
What could go wrong: This is an observational cohort study, not a randomized trial, so results may be influenced by patient differences. Removing a normal appendix carries surgical risks like bleeding or infection.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

appendicitis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

APPENDICITIS ACUTE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg

Copenhagen NV, 2400, Denmark
Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev

Herlev, 2730, Denmark
Copenhagen University Hospital - Hvidovre

Hvidovre, 2650, Denmark
Copenhagen University Hospital - North Zealand

Hillerød, 3400, Denmark

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