Anatomical variations of Appendix in Patients with Acute Appendicitis among two major tribes in Lagos Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Acute appendicitis is a common surgical problem. Prompt and accurate diagnosis is 
essential for appropriate management. This relies not only on the understanding of the clinical features, 
but also on the knowledge of the variations in its anatomical position. 
Patients and methods: In the present study, we have examined the position, length, and the extent of 
the mesoappendix of the vermiform appendix in patients seen in three private hospitals in Lagos state 
over a period of twelve calendar months. The features of interest were evaluated during 
appendicectomy.The variations in the anatomic features of appendix was compared between the two 
dominant tribes in Lagos Nigeria 
Results: The pelvic appendix was commonest position (41.3%). The average length of the appendix was 
11.5cm and the mesoappendix fail to reach the tip in 55%. 
There were subtle anatomical variations of appendix between the two major tribes in patients that 
presented with acute appendicitis in three private hospitals in Lagos state. Appendix was 0.5cm longer 
in the Ibos; the incidence of appendicitis appeared relatively lower in Ibos. The position of the appendix 
in the Yoruba was mainly pelvic, while in the Ibo the pelvic and retrocaecal position occur in equal 
proportions. 
The extent of mesentery did not appear to have any influence on the incidence of acute appendicitis. 
Conclusion: There are no dramatic differences in the position and length of the vermiform appendix in 
the two major tribes in Lagos. The incidence of appendicitis was higher in the Yoruba’s probably 
because more Yoruba’s were seen and secondly because Lagos is the home of the Yoruba’s. 
Furthermore pelvic appendix was common in the Yoruba and as speculated may account for this 
difference.