Background  Antibiotics as treatment for uncomplicated appendicitis has been studied intensely in terms of complications and recurrence of appendicitis to assess if antibiotics could replace appendectomy in selected patients. The group of patients that have their healthy appendix removed or left in situ could potentially benefit from a more conservative treatment with antibiotics. We therefore aimed to explore patients’ thoughts and opinions on the use of antibiotics for suspected uncomplicated appendicitis instead of appendectomy.

Methods  Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants operated for suspected appendicitis who either had a negative appendectomy or a normal diagnostic laparoscopy. Participants were recruited from a large university hospital in the Capital Region of Denmark. Interviews were analyzed using content analysis.

Results  Rich data were reached after interviewing 15 participants, and three themes were developed: (1) participants wondered if antibiotics or surgery would be the correct treatment because of the risks of complications or recurring appendicitis, (2) some participants wanted to avoid surgery for different reasons, e.g., they were scared, and (3) participants relied heavily on recommendations from the surgeon.

Conclusion  Patients have different perspectives when asked about their preference towards surgery and antibiotics. Some participants preferred surgery because it seemed quick and safe while some preferred antibiotics because they were anxious about surgery or wanted to skip the postoperative recovery period. Participants relied on recommendations from their surgeon, and if antibiotics were to be implemented, it would possibly be best accompanied by guiding and asking the patient about their preferences before deciding on a treatment strategy.