Learning curve of laparoscopic appendectomy in a low-resource setting: a cumulative sum analysis of operative length.

BACKGROUND: Cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis is a valuable tool for quantifying the learning curve of surgical teams by detecting significant changes in operative length. However, there is limited research evaluating the learning curve of laparoscopic techniques in low-resource settings. The objective of this study is to evaluate the learning curve for laparoscopic appendectomy within a single surgical team in Senegal. METHODS: This was a single-center prospective study conducted from May 1, 2018, to August 31, 2023 of patients who underwent laparoscopic appendectomy at a tertiary care institution in West Africa. The AAST classification was used to describe the severity of appendicitis. Parameters studied included age, sex, operative length, conversion rate, and postoperative outcomes. To quantify the learning curve, CUSUM analysis of operative length was performed. RESULTS: A total of 81 patients were included. The mean age was 26.7 years (range 11-70 years) with a sex ratio of 1.9. Pre-operative severity according to AAST was Grade I in 75.4% (n = 61), Grade III in 7.4% (n = 6), Grade IV in 6.1% (n = 5), and Grade V in 11.1% (n = 9). Conversion occurred in 5 cases (6.1%). The average operative length was 76.8 min (range 30-180 min) and the average length of hospitalization was 2.7 days (range 1-13 days). Morbidity was observed in 3.7% (n = 3) and there were no deaths. The CUSUM analysis showed that a steady operative length was achieved after 28 procedures, with decreasing operative lengths thereafter. CONCLUSION: Surgeons in our setting overcame the learning curve for laparoscopic appendectomy after performing 28 procedures. Moreover, laparoscopic appendectomy is safe and feasible throughout the learning curve. CUSUM analysis should be applied to other laparoscopic procedures and individualized by surgical teams to improve surgical performance and patient outcomes in low-resource settings.

Bezoar in Meckel's diverticulum: Case report and narrative review.

INTRODUCTION: Bezoars are a known cause of complications in Meckel's diverticulum. We present a case in which a bezoar in a Meckel's diverticulum resulted in intestinal obstruction. In addition, we conducted a narrative review to explore the association between Meckel's diverticulum and bezoars. CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a 22-year-old patient admitted for bowel obstruction persisting for three days and periumbilical tenderness. Abdominal CT tomography revealed a hyper dense circular structure with a diameter of 2 cm, small bowel distension of 41 mm, and free fluid. During surgical exploration, a Meckel diverticulum was found between the antimesenteric border of the small bowel and posterior wall of the umbilicus. The Meckel diverticulum was resected, and upon examination, it was found to contain a calcified phytobezoar. The postoperative course was uneventful. DISCUSSION: The clinical and paraclinical presentation of bezoars in Meckel's diverticulum is nonspecific and diagnosis remains challenging despite improved diagnostic modalities. The association between Meckel's diverticulum and bezoars is often identified during surgery, as it is difficult to diagnose using CT scans. The choice between laparoscopic and open surgery depends on the patient's situation. CONCLUSION: Diagnosing a bezoar in a Meckel's diverticulum remains challenging. Treatment involves surgery, and the choice of surgical approach depends on the context.

Anterior dislocation of the shoulder associated with a diaphyseal fracture of the ipsilateral humerus: a case report.

Background: Anterior dislocation of the shoulder associated with a diaphyseal fracture of the ipsilateral humerus is a rare and controversial occurrence, with very few cases reported in the literature. Case presentation: We present a case of a 39-year-old right-handed driver who presented with an anterior dislocation of the shoulder associated with a diaphyseal fracture of the ipsilateral humerus following a road traffic accident. The lateral approach to the fracture allowed us to use two forceps to gain a good grip on the proximal fragment and perform the maneuver to reduce the dislocation. The fracture was reduced and fixed with a molded Lecestre-type plate. Conclusion: In this case, we employed the approach of initially reducing the shoulder dislocation with forceps, followed by osteosynthesis of the humeral fracture. The functional results were excellent after 6 months.

Factors associated with conversion in laparoscopic surgery in a low-resource setting: a single-center prospective study.

INTRODUCTION: Laparoscopy has a clear patient benefit related to postoperative morbidity but may not be as commonly performed in low-and middle-income countries. The decision to convert to laparotomy can be complex and involve factors related to the surgeon, patient, and procedure. The objective of this work is to analyze the factors associated with conversion in laparoscopic surgery in a low-resource setting. METHODS: This is a single-center prospective study of patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery between May 1, 2018 and October 31, 2021. The parameters studied were age, sex, body mass index (BMI), intraoperative complication (e.g., accidental enterotomy, hemorrhage), equipment malfunction (e.g., technical failure of the equipment, break in CO2 supply line), operating time, and conversion rate. RESULTS: A total of 123 laparoscopic surgeries were performed. The average age of patients was 31.2 years (range 11-75). The procedures performed included appendix procedures (48%), followed by gynecological (18.7%), gallbladder (14.6%), digestive (10.56%), and abdominal procedures (4%). The average length of hospitalization was 3 days (range 1-16). Conversion to laparotomy was reported in 8.9% (n = 11) cases. Equipment malfunction was encountered in 9.8% (n = 12) cases. Surgical complications were noted in 11 cases (8.9%). Risk factors for conversion were shown to be BMI > 25 kg/m2 (OR 4.6; p = 0.034), intraoperative complications (OR 12.6; p = 0.028), and equipment malfunction (OR 9.4; p = 0.002). CONCLUSION: A better understanding of the underlying factors associated with high conversion rates, such as overweight/obesity, intraoperative complications, and equipment failure, is the first step toward surgical planning to reduce postoperative morbidity in low-resource settings.

Evolution of laparoscopic surgery in a sub-Saharan African country: a 30-year literature review in Senegal.

INTRODUCTION: The advent of laparoscopy has significantly reduced the morbidity associated with the majority of abdominal surgeries. In Senegal, the first studies evaluating this technique were published in the 1980s. The objective of this systematic review is to assess the evolution of laparoscopy research in Senegal. METHODS: A search of PubMed and Google Scholar was carried out without limit of publication date. The keywords used were "senegal" AND "laparoscop*". Duplicates were removed, and remaining articles were assessed for selection criteria. We included all articles about laparoscopy published in Senegal. The parameters studied in each included article were the place and year of study, average age, sex ratio, assessed indications and results. RESULTS: 41 Studies published between 1984 and 2021 met selection criteria. The average age of patients was 33 years (range 4.7-63). The sex ratio was 0.33. The main indications for laparoscopy according to the studies were: benign gastrointestinal disorders in 11 studies (26.8%), abdominal emergencies in 9 studies (22%), gallbladder surgery in 5 studies (12.2%), benign gynecological pathology in 6 studies (14.6%), malignant gynecological pathology in 2 studies (4.9%), diagnostic laparoscopy in 2 studies (4.9%), groin hernia repair in 2 studies (4.9%) and testicular pathology in 1 study (2.4%). Overall mortality was estimated at 0.9% (95% CI 0.6-1.3) and overall morbidity for all complications was estimated at 5% (95% CI 3.4-6.9). CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review showed a predominance of the laparoscopy publications from the capital in Dakar with favorable outcomes. This technique should be popularized in the different regions of the country and its indications expanded.

Pylephlebitis complicating acute calculous cholecystitis: A case report.

Pylephlebitis is a complication of intra-abdominal infections. Its occurrence during cholecystitis is a rare situation. We report the case of a 43-year-old female patient who presented with septic thrombosis of the right portal branch following acute calculous cholecystitis diagnosed on abdominal CT. The clinical evolution was favorable under antibiotic therapy and a cholecystectomy was scheduled.

Laparoscopic treatment for colonic injuries following penetrating trauma: A feasible option in a surgical department of Sub-Saharan Africa.

Introduction: The management of abdominal penetrating trauma remains complex. Between the risk of negative laparotomy and missed visceral injury, laparoscopy is a good alternative. We report 2 cases of abdominal penetrating trauma with colonic injury diagnosed and treated with laparoscopic approach. Observations: The first patient was 15 years old, with no medical history and received at 3 h of a penetrating trauma by stabbing. Hemodynamic status was normal. An exploratory laparoscopy was performed. It objectified a penetration of the peritoneum on the left flank with an injury of the anti-mesenteric edge of the descending colon that was sutured. The second patient was 20 years old, with no history, who had a penetrating trauma of the left iliac fossa by stabbing. Arterial pressure was normal. He was received 6 h after the trauma. An exploratory laparoscopy objectified an injury of 2 cm located at the sigmoid colon which was sutured with a good evolution. Conclusion: Laparoscopy in abdominal wounds is a good option in selected patients. It has a diagnostic and therapeutic importance in colonic injuries. The limits are represented by the possibility of unrecognized visceral lesions that can lead to additional morbidity.

Treatment of obstetrical brachial plexus palsy sequelae: Preliminary results about 18 cases.

Background: Severe obstetrical injuries of the brachial plexus lead to a complete or incomplete paralysis resulting in a significant functional handicap of the limb.This study aimed to assess the preliminary results of our management. Materials and methods: This prospective study involved 18 patients, with an average age of 7.7 years. The choice of the surgical technique depended on the type of palsy. We evaluated our patients using the Mallet, Gilbert-Raimondi, Brachial plexus World Group Heerlen, and Raimondi scores. Results: Patients in groups I and II of Narakas had an anterior shoulder release (n = 2) and transfer of the latissimus dorsi (n = 8). For those in group III, we performed 5 biceps rerouting and 2 radius derotation osteotomies, one of which was associated with a Zancolli I and an arthrodesis of the thumb MCP joint. In the wrist and hand, we performed two tendon transfers from the flexor carpi ulnaris to the extensor tendons of the fingers.After a mean follow-up of 30.52 months, in the first 9 patients, active external rotation of the shoulder increased from a mean value of -22.5°-38.8° and mean active abduction from 78.3° to 141.1°. In Group III, the mean spontaneous supination position of 75.5° was improved to 45° pronation. Regarding the two patients with tendon transfers, active wrist extension increased from 0° to 45° and from -60° to 0°, respectively. Conclusion: Palliative surgery in the treatment obstetrical brachial plexus palsy sequelae retains an important place in the restoration of upper limb function.

Management of midline ventral hernias in a surgical department of sub-Saharan Africa: A retrospective cohort study.

Introduction: The linea alba is the second most frequent site of abdominal wall hernias after the inguinal region. Prosthetic approach, often recommended, comes up against the low socio-economic level and the availability of these materials in developing countries. Our objective is to evaluate the indications and results of midline ventral hernia surgery. Methods: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study over 36 months including all adult patients (over 15 years old) treated for primary or recurrent midline ventral hernias. The parameters studied were: age, sex, risk factors, type of hernia according to the classification of the European Hernia Society (EHS), clinical presentation, hernial ring size, surgical technique and results (recurrence, chronic pain). Results: We included 65 patients. The mean age was 40.5 years ± 16.4. There was a female predominance (56.3%, n = 36) with a sex ratio of 0.77. According to the EHS classification, type M3 (umbilical) was more common (67.2%), followed by type M2 (epigastric) in 25% and M4 (infra-umbilical) in 1.6%. According to the clinical presentation, 85.6% (n = 55) were uncomplicated, 10.9% (n = 7) were strangulated in and 3.1% (n = 2) incarcerated. A primary suture was performed in 93.8% (n = 61) and a mesh repair in 6.15% (n = 4). With a mean follow-up of 8.2 ± 11.9 months, we noted a recurrence in 6.1% (n = 4) and chronic pain in 6.1% (n = 4). Conclusion: There is a need to individualize or contextualize the guidelines. In our context where meshes are not always available, pure tissue repairs keep their place in the treatment.

Efficacy of laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of hepatic abscess: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Liver abscess is a common cause of intra-abdominal infection and its treatment depends on the presentation. Laparoscopy, in addition to its classic benefits, has particular advantages in the management of liver abscess but its role is not well defined and studies done in that field are heterogenous. The objective of this systematic review is to evaluate the efficacy of laparoscopic surgery in the management of liver abscess. METHODS: We realized a systematic review and meta-analysis including studies published in the 20 last years. The primary outcome was the pooled prevalence of recurrent or residual liver abscess after laparoscopic treatment. RESULTS: We retrieved 190 studies regarding laparoscopic surgery in liver abscess and 17 studies were included in the quantitative and qualitative synthesis. A total of 608 patients was included and 299 of them (49.1%) were treated by laparoscopic surgery. The indications were mainly failure of first line treatment (antibiotic treatment and/or percutaneous drainage and/or needle aspiration) and ruptured multiloculated, or caudate lobe liver abscess. The surgical gesture performed was laparoscopic drainage in all studies. The post-operative rate of recurrent or residual liver abscess after treatment by laparoscopy was 4.22% (95% CI: 2.29-7.07). CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review showed that laparoscopic drainage had a considerable place in the management. The post-operative rate of recurrence was low with no mortality suggesting that laparoscopy is safe and feasible for liver abscess management.

QSIRS Can Improve Accuracy of QSOFA and SIRS in Prediction of Mortality in Surgical Emergencies.

Background The quick sequential organ failure assessment (QSOFA) score and the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria were developed to predict the risk of sepsis and death in patients received in emergency. To improve sensitivity in predicting death, the association of the two scores was proposed under the term QSIRS (QSOFA + SIRS). Our aim was to determine the accuracy of QSOFA, SIRS, and QSIRS in prediction of mortality in surgical emergencies, and to compare these scores. Patients and Methods This is a prospective study over a period of 1 year. Patients older than 15 years who presented a digestive surgical emergency (bowel obstruction, peritonitis, appendicitis, strangulated hernia) were included. For each score, the specificity, the sensitivity, the positive predictive value, the negative predictive value, and areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) were compared. Results One hundred and eighteen patients were included and 11 deaths were recorded (9.3%). There was a statistically significant relationship between each score and death (QSOFA p = 0.01, SIRS p = 0.003, and QSIRS p = 0.004). The realization of the ROC curve found a higher AUC for QSIRS (0.845 [0.767-0.905]) compared with QSOFA (0.783 [0.698-0.854]) and SIRS (0.737 [0.648-0.813]). QSIRS (90.9%) had a higher sensitivity compared with the two other scores alone (SIRS = 81.9% and QSOFA = 36.3%). Conclusion Our study found that QSIRS improves the ability to predict death in digestive surgical emergencies.

Is Desarda technique suitable to emergency inguinal hernia surgery? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Despite the fact that Lichtenstein is the gold standard for uncomplicated inguinal hernia, the use of mesh in an emergency context remains controversial. Pure tissue repairs have an essential role in the management of incarcerated or strangulated inguinal hernia. To date, there has been little agreement on what is the best surgical technique suitable for emergency hernia surgery. This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the pure tissue Desarda technique for emergency inguinal hernia repair. METHODS: A complete search of electronic databases including PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Embase and, Cochrane library was realized. Newcastle-Ottawa-Scale (NOS) (selection and outcome criteria) was used for quality assessment of included studies. The pooled prevalence of post-operative complications (surgical site infection, hematoma/seroma, chronic pain and, recurrence rate) was estimated. RESULTS: We included 5 studies from different countries. There were 2 randomized controlled trial and 3 observational cohort studies. Totally, there were 199 patients with a mean age of 57.6 years. Male patients were predominant (n = 196). The pooled prevalence of surgical site infection and hematoma/seroma was respectively 16.56% (95% CI: 11.74-22.39) and 12.43% (95%CI: 6.90-20.108). The pooled prevalence of chronic pain and recurrence was respectively 4.35% (95% CI: 1.04-11.47) and 2.10% (95%CI: 0.61-5.14). CONCLUSIONS: In summary, Desarda technique is feasible in emergency context with good results. We found any particularly important rate of complications considering the surgery in emergency context. Further studies should be realized to raise the level of evidence.

Synchronous sigmoid and transverse volvulus: A case report and qualitative systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Colonic volvulus is defined as a torsion of a part of the colon causing large bowel obstruction by strangulation which may lead to ischemia and then necrosis. The synchronous occurrence of a sigmoid colon and transverse colon volvulus is exceptional. We describe a case of synchronous sigmoid and transverse volvulus in a patient with a qualitative systematic review of this condition. PRESENTATION OF THE CASE: This is a 74-year-old patient with a history of chronic constipation, who consulted for bowel obstruction. Plain abdominal radiography showed diffuse gas distension of the colon with the absence of rectal gas. An exploratory laparotomy was performed and showed sigmoid colon volvulus associated with synchronous transverse colon volvulus without bowel necrosis. A left hemicolectomy with loop colostomy was performed. The restoration of bowel continuity was done 3 weeks. The post-operative course was uneventful. DISCUSSION: The occurrence of a simultaneous sigmoid and transverse colonic volvulus is an exceptional situation. Due to the rarity of this clinical entity, the literature concerning its description is sparse and the treatment options are poorly codified. There are no guidelines in the treatment and a tailored approach should be used for each patient. CONCLUSION: The dual location of strangulation makes this situation a major surgical emergency with a high risk of gangrene and septic shock. Colectomy with delayed anastomosis should be preferred in the treatment.

Withdrawal Notice: Prevalence and Factors Associated with Lower Limb Amputation in Patients Hospitalized for Diabetic Foot: A Cross-sectional Study

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Strangulated spigelian hernia with necrosis of the caecum, appendix and terminal ileum: an unusual presentation in the elderly.

Spigelian hernia is a rare form of abdominal wall hernias. We report an unusual case of a strangulated spigelian hernia with necrotic contents of the caecum, appendix and terminal ileum in the elderly. An 84-year-old woman, with a history of eight pregnancies, was admitted for bowel obstruction evolving for 7 days. The computed tomography scan showed a strangulated right spigelian hernia. Surgical exploration with an incision centered on the mass confirmed the diagnosis with extensive necrosis of the caecum, appendix and 10 cm of the terminal ileum. A right hemi-colectomy with an ileo-colic anastomosis was performed. The post-operative course was marked by the death of the patient in intensive care due to multi-visceral failure. The occurrence of strangulation with necrosis of the caecum, appendix and terminal ileum in spigelian hernia is extremely rare. It requires early diagnosis and treatment to reduce post-operative morbidity and mortality.

[Feasibility and relevance of safety checklist in the central operating block at the Regional Medical Center, Saint Louis, Senegal]. / Faisabilité et pertinence de la check-list de sécurité au bloc opératoire central du Centre Hospitalier Régional de Saint Louis du Sénégal.

INTRODUCTION: Safety checklist (CL) in the operating block is a quality tool which allows to reduce perioperative morbidity and mortality. That is one of the French National Health Authority requirements for the certification procedure of healthcare institutions. This study aimed to conduct a quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the use of this tool in the central operating block at the Regional Medical Center in Saint Louis. METHODS: A prospective evaluation of the indicators for monitoring the practical use of the checklist and the contribution to the improvement of surgical practices in the operating block at the Regional Medical Center in Saint Louis was initiated since the launch of this study in March 2016. RESULTS: CL utilization rate was 75%, compliance rate was 60%; information rate was 99% for the pre-induction items, 93% for the pre-incision items and 88% for the postoperative items. Only 73% of analyzed CL were filled with an effective oral communication according to the three items. CL helped to detect hardware failures and/or adverse events in 15% of cases. No patient's identification or operated side error were objectified in our study. CONCLUSION: CL contributes in the development of the culture of patient's safety in the operating block and has led to the establishment of a risk mapping in the operating block. Nevertheless, while important, it shouldn't be considered a magic tool to avoid errors but integrated into the improvement in health care quality with other programs such as the reporting of adverse events and the the review of morbidity and mortality.

Traumatic diaphragmatic injuries: epidemiological, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects.

INTRODUCTION: Diaphragmatic injuries include wounds and diaphragm ruptures, due to a thoracoabdominal blunt or penetrating traumas. Their incidence ranges between 0.8 and 15 %. The diagnosis is often delayed, despite several medical imaging techniques. The surgical management remains controversal, particularly for the choice of the surgical approach and technique. The mortality is mainly related to associated injuries. The aim of our study was to evaluate the incidence of diaphragmatic injuries occuring in thoraco-abdominal traumas, and to discuss their epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We performed a retrospective study over a period of 21 years, between January 1994 and June 2015 at the Department of General Surgery of the Aristide Le Dantec hospital in Dakar, Senegal. All patients diagnosed with diaphragmatic injuries were included in the study. RESULTS: Over the study period, 1535 patients had a thoraco-abdominal trauma. There were 859 cases of blunt trauma, and 676 penetrating chest or abdominal trauma. Our study involved 20 cases of diaphragmatic injuries (1.3 %). The sex-ratio was 4. The mean age was 33 years. Brawls represented 83.3 % (17 cases). Stab attacks represented 60 % (12 cases). The incidence of diaphragmatic injury was 2.6 %. The wound was in the thorax in 60 % (seven cases). Chest radiography was contributory in 45 % (nine cases). The diagnosis of wounds or ruptures of the diaphragm was done preoperatively in 45 % (nine cases). The diaphragmatic wound was on the left side in 90 % (18 cases) and its mean size was 4.3 cm. The surgical procedure involved a reduction of herniated viscera and a suture of the diaphragm by "X" non absorbable points in 85 % (17 cases). A thoracic aspiration was performed in all patients. Morbidity rate was 10 % and mortality rate 5 %. CONCLUSION: The diagnosis of diaphragmatic rupture and wounds remains difficult and often delayed. They should be kept in mind in any blunt or penetrating thoraco-abdominal trauma. Diaphragmatic lesions are usually located on the left side. Surgery is an efficient treatment.

INTRODUCTION: Les traumatismes du diaphragme comprennent les ruptures et les plaies du diaphragme. Leur incidence varie entre 0,8 % et 15 %. Elles sont très souvent méconnues malgré les techniques performantes d'imagerie médicale. Leur prise en charge chirurgicale reste controversée. La mortalité de cette pathologie est liée aux lésions associées. Le but de notre étude était d'apprécier l'incidence des lésions diaphragmatique dans les traumatismes thoraco-abdominaux, et de discuter les aspects épidémiologiques, diagnostiques et thérapeutiques. PATIENTS ET MÉTHODE: Il s'agissait d'une étude rétrospective sur 21 ans allant du 1er janvier 1994 au 30 juin 2015. Cette étude a été réalisée au Service de Chirurgie Générale de l'Hôpital Aristide Le Dantec de Dakar. Etaient inclus dans cette étude tous les patients qui présentaient une lésion diaphragmatique consécutive à un traumatisme abdominal et/ou thoracique ouvert ou fermé. RÉSULTATS: Durant cette période d'étude, nous avons reçu 1535 patients victimes de traumatisme thoracique et/ou abdominal. Il s'agissait de 859 cas de contusions et 676 cas de plaies thoraciques et/ou abdominaux. Notre étude portait sur 20 cas de lésions diaphragmatiques (1,3 %). Le sex-ratio était de 4. L'âge moyen était de 33 ans. Les agressions par arme blanche représentaient 60 % (12 cas). L'incidence des lésions diaphragmatiques était de 2,6 %. La plaie cutanée était de siège thoracique dans 60 % (7 cas). La radiographie du thorax était contributive dans 45 % (9 cas). Le diagnostic de lésion diaphragmatique était préopératoire dans 45 % (9 cas). La brèche diaphragmatique siégeait à gauche dans 90 % (18 cas) et la taille moyenne était de 4,3 cm. Le geste chirurgical avait consisté en une réduction des viscères herniés et une suture du diaphragme par des points en « X ¼ dans 85 % (17 cas). Le drainage thoracique était systématique. Le taux de morbidité était de 10 % et la mortalité de 5 %. CONCLUSION: Leur diagnostic est difficile. Elles siègent le plus souvent à gauche. Leur traitement est chirurgical et la voie d'abord préférentielle est la laparotomie.

Appendicular peritonitis in situs inversus totalis: a case report.

INTRODUCTION: Situs inversus is a congenital anomaly characterized by the transposition of the abdominal viscera. When associated with dextrocardia, it is known as situs inversus totalis. This condition is rare and can be a diagnostic problem when associated with appendicular peritonitis. CASE PRESENTATION: We report the case of a 20-year-old African man who presented to the emergency department with a 4-day history of diffuse abdominal pain, which began in his left iliac region and hypogastrium. After examination, we initiated a surgical exploration for peritonitis. We discovered a situs inversus at the left side of his liver, and his appendix was perforated in its middle third. A complementary post-operative thoracic and abdominal tomodensitometry revealed a situs inversus totalis. CONCLUSION: Appendicular peritonitis in situs inversus is a rare association that can present a diagnostic problem. Morphologic exploration methods such as ultrasonography, tomodensitometry, magnetic resonance imaging, and laparoscopy may contribute to the early management of the disease and give guidance in choosing the most appropriate treatment for patients.