What are the advantages of ERAT in treating acute appendicitis?

Nov 05, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Huang Yuhong

Introduction

Advantages of ERAT in treating acute appendicitis generally include minimal invasiveness, rapid recovery, preservation of the appendix's physiological function, avoidance of surgical incision infections, relatively simple and quick procedure, and broad applicability. ERAT is performed via endoscopy without abdominal incisions, using only natural orifices for treatment, thus causing minimal damage to abdominal wall tissues and resulting in mild postoperative pain.

Advantages of ERAT in treating acute appendicitis generally include minimal invasiveness with rapid recovery, preservation of the appendix's physiological function, avoidance of surgical incision infection, relatively simple and quick procedure, and broad applicability. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Minimal trauma and rapid recovery: ERAT is performed via endoscopy without abdominal incisions, using only natural orifices for treatment. This causes minimal damage to abdominal wall tissues. Postoperative pain is mild, patients can typically get out of bed within 1–2 days, hospital stays are short, and they can quickly resume normal life and work.

2. Preservation of appendiceal physiological function: This approach does not remove the appendix, thereby preserving its physiological roles in immune regulation and maintaining intestinal microbiota balance. It avoids potential long-term impacts on bowel function that may result from appendectomy, aligning with the minimally invasive treatment principle of "organ function preservation."

3. Prevention of surgical site infection: As no abdominal incision is required, the risk of external bacterial contamination is reduced. Compared to traditional open appendectomy, ERAT lowers the incidence of postoperative complications such as wound infection and fat liquefaction, thus reducing the burden of postoperative care.

4. Relatively simple and fast procedure: ERAT involves straightforward steps—such as intubation and drainage—performed under endoscopy. The entire procedure is usually completed quickly, without complex surgical preparation or extensive anesthesia requirements, enabling rapid relief of acute abdominal pain.

5. Broad applicability: ERAT can be considered for various conditions including acute simple appendicitis, acute suppurative appendicitis (without perforation), and acute exacerbation of chronic appendicitis, provided there are no contraindications to endoscopic procedures. It offers a new option for patients who are unsuitable for or reluctant to undergo surgical resection.

When symptoms of acute appendicitis occur, prompt medical evaluation is necessary to determine eligibility for ERAT. After treatment, patients should follow medical advice regarding dietary adjustments, avoid strenuous activities, and undergo regular follow-up examinations of the appendix. If symptoms fail to improve or worsen after treatment, timely communication with the physician is essential to adjust the management plan.

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Is moxibustion effective for appendicitis?

In general, the effectiveness of moxibustion for appendicitis depends on the specific situation. Moxibustion is ineffective during acute appendicitis attacks and may delay proper treatment; prompt medical attention is required. During the remission phase of chronic appendicitis, moxibustion may help alleviate mild abdominal discomfort as an adjunct therapy, but it cannot achieve a complete cure. In daily care, regardless of whether the condition is acute or chronic appendicitis, a light diet should be maintained and overeating should be avoided.