Shorter antibiotic courses prove effective for complicated appendicitis

A systematic review of 11 studies involving 8,361 participants demonstrates that shorter intravenous antibiotic courses (2-6 days) are non-inferior to longer regimens for preventing infections after complicated appendicitis. Early transitions to oral antibiotics also show effectiveness, reducing hospital stays and healthcare costs. Key risk factors affecting antibiotic duration include disease severity and surgical complexity. The findings advocate for tailored antibiotic regimens based on individual patient profiles, underscoring the importance of personalized treatment approaches.