Stump Appendicitis: The Dilemma of an Unfinished Business

Background: Stump appendicitis, a rare complication of appendectomy, results from incomplete removal of the appendix.Given its nonspecific presentation, which mimics acute appendicitis, stump appendicitis is not usually considered among the differential diagnoses in patients with a history of appendectomy.This diagnostic dilemma can result in delayed treatment, increasing the incidence of complications such as perforation or peritonitis.Case Report: A 63-year-old male who had undergone a laparoscopic appendectomy 2 months prior presented with symptoms suggestive of acute appendicitis.Physical examination and imaging suggested stump appendicitis.The diagnosis was confirmed when laparoscopic intervention revealed a 2-cm appendiceal stump.The patient recovered uneventfully and was discharged on the same day of surgery.Conclusion: Although stump appendicitis is rare, it should always be considered in the differential diagnosis for patients with a prior appendectomy who present with an acute abdomen.The objective of this case report is to highlight the importance of prompt recognition of this pathology to avoid unnecessary delays that can increase patient morbidity.