[Appendectomy, a risk factor for ectopic pregnancy].

As part of a case-control study of ectopic pregnancy, we evaluated the potential etiological role of appendectomy. Previous appendectomy was associated with an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy (adjusted Odds-ratio: 2.2; 95 percent CI: 1.5-3.2). Ruptured appendix did not appear to be more strongly associated with an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy than unruptured appendix. Such confounding factors as absence of pathological diagnosis of appendicitis and relationship between age of appendectomy and age of first sexual intercourse are discussed. This study provides an additional argument in favor of laparoscopy in childbearing age to diagnose appendicitis and salpingitis.