Use of the appendix stump in the treatment of meconium ileus.

Three neonates with meconium ileus who failed to respond to non-operative measures were successfully treated by appendicectomy and irrigation with Gastrografin into the small bowel via the appendix stump. The meconium was emptied out and the stump ligated. This method avoids enterotomy, enterostomies or resection of bowel. The post-operative course is simplified and hospital stay decreased. Removal of the appendix precludes future disease of this organ which may be problematic in patients with cystic fibrosis.