During a ten-year period 193 patients with an appendiceal mass--and subsequently proved postinflammatory changes of the appendix--were treated conservatively. The course was uneventful in 88%. Twelve per cent underwent delayed surgical intervention caused by complications with one death. Elective appendectomy was performed after three months with a complication rate of 3.4%. In comparison with series with early operation the conservative management seems to carry a lower morbidity. The value of elective appendectomy is discussed.