Early discharge following appendicectomy in children.

In a prospective study of 410 children who had a non-perforated appendix removed, the mean postoperative stay was 46 hours and 80% of patients were discharged within 48 hours. Twenty-two patients were readmitted, but neither the temperature of the patient, nor bowel motions passed prior to discharge were of any prognostic value in predicting those who would develop postoperative complications. The cost saving and the patient benefit of earlier return to home environment recommend this policy.