Comparison of Medical and Surgical Treatment of Uncomplicated Acute Appendicitis in Children

Inclusion Criteria: * first episode of appendicitis * Pain \< 48 hours * White blood cell count \< 18,000 * temperature \< 103º F * radiographic evidence of acute appendicitis on ultrasound or CT without evidence of perforation * appendiceal diameter \< 11 mm * ability to take oral antibiotics Exclusion Criteria: * Prior antibiotic treatment for appendicitis * presence of medical condition prohibiting surgical therapy * radiographic or clinical evidence of abscess or perforation * appendiceal mass, positive pregnancy test * other diagnosis equally as likely as appendicitis * pain for ≥ 48 hours, white blood cell count ≥ 18,000, temperature ≥ 103º F, or appendiceal diameter ≥ 11 mm * inability to take oral antibiotics.