DRG Category: 188

Mean LOS: 4.9 days

Description MEDICAL: Other Digestive System Diagnoses with CC

DRG Category: 338

Mean LOS: 10.3 days

Description SURGICAL: Appendectomy with Complicated Principal Diagnosis with Major CC

DRG Category: 341

Mean LOS: 6.8 days

Description SURGICAL: Appendectomy without Complicated Principal Diagnosis with Major CC

classification section:



Appendicitis is an acute inflammation of the vermiform appendix, a narrow, blind tube that extends from the inferior part of the cecum. The appendix has no known function but does fill and empty as food moves through the gastrointestinal tract. Appendicitis begins when the appendix becomes obstructed or inflamed. Irritation and inflammation lead to engorged veins, stasis, and arterial occlusion. Eventually bacteria accumulate, and the appendix can develop gangrene. Appendicitis is the most common cause of acute inflammation in the right lower quadrant of the abdominal cavity and is the most common surgical emergency.

Appendicitis occurs in 7% of the U.S. population and has an overall mortality rate of 0.2% to 0.8% that is primarily attributable to complications of the disease rather than to surgical intervention.