Conclusion
In conclusion, we have found that decision-making in cases of suspected appendicitis is largely based on a systematic approach where "hard" data such as lab results and the results of radiological investigations play a major role and the assessment of signs and symptoms ("bedside clinical skill") has less impact on decision-making, than is usually described in textbooks. The surgeon's own feeling, intuition and experience must also be taken into account. How these various approaches are best merged remains unanswered, and if not dealt with in the near future there is a risk that the importance of bedside clinical skill will vanish in favour of "hard" data.