A Meta-analysis and Systematic Review of the Role of Appendectomy in the Pathogenesis of Colorectal Cancer

Objective Due to the fact that removal of the appendix might induce physiological changes in the gastrointestinal tract, and subsequently play a role in carcinogenesis, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate if there is an association between appendectomy and altered risks of colorectal cancer(CRC). Methods We conducted systematic research by using Cochrane library, Embase ,Pubmed ,Clinical trials.gov and Web of sciences up to February 01, 2023 for the effect of appendectomy on colorectal cancer random effect model was used for evaluating the pooled hazard ratio of developing CRC after appendectomy and its 95% interval. Results A total of 10 studeis were consisting of of 1,001,693 appendectomy and 39,463 CRC cases were included in the present systematic review and meta-analysis. Our meta-analysis showed a pooled HR of 1.04(95%CI:1.0-1.08)of for developing CRC after appendectomy. The HR of developing CRC was increased to 1.20(95% CI:0.69-1.69) when only considering this risk after more than 10 years of follow-up. Conclusion In conclusion, the risk of colorectal cancer was slightly increased when no period was applied. However, this risk was not present in the long-term(more than 10 years). Our results seem to be influenced by the heterogeneity of the included studies. However, it is still suggested to the physicians to consider the potential of alternative therapy and overlook the future possible complications of an unnecessary appendectomy.