Appendicitis
An appendix is a small, tube-like structure attached to the first part of your colon. It is positioned in the lower right part of your abdomen. The exact function of the appendix is not known, however, it may be a region that hosts friendly bacteria which aid digestion and fight infection. Any blockage inside of the appendix can cause appendicitis. The blockage increases pressure, issues with blood flow, and inflammation. If the blockage is not treated on time, the appendix can burst and spread the infection into the abdomen. This causes a condition known as peritonitis.
Appendicitis is a problem in which the appendix becomes swollen, inflamed, and filled with pus. The appendix is a small finger-shaped pouch on the right side of the abdomen, attached to your large intestine. The appendix may be related to the immune system and affects your body's ability to fight off infection.
Appendicitis perhaps occurs due to either a stomach infection goes to the appendix or a hard piece of stool be trapped in the appendix, causing infection
Appendicitis may happen at any age, generally ranging from older children to adults in their 30s.
A blockage inside of the appendix may result in infection and may likely to cause appendicitis. The bacteria multiply quickly, making the appendix to become inflamed, swollen and filled with pus. If not treated on time, the appendix may rupture and cause complications.
The first sign of appendicitis is mostly pain across the abdominal area. As the infection develops; the place of the pain becomes more distinct in the lower right side of the abdomen. Some of the common symptoms are
Your doctor will examine you and will ask some questions related to your symptoms. She/he may apply pressure to the spot to see if it worsens the pain. If your doctor finds distinctive signs and symptoms, they will diagnose appendicitis. If not, more tests can be done. Additional tests may include:
Appendectomy is done in two ways i.e. open and laparoscopic. The choice of surgery depends on several factors, like the severity of your appendicitis and your medical history.
In an open appendectomy, your surgeon makes one cut in the lower right side of your abdomen. Your appendix is detached and the wound is closed with stitches. The procedure lets your doctor clean the abdominal cavity in case your appendix has burst.
Your surgeon can select an open appendectomy if your appendix has ruptured and the infection has spread to other organs. It’s also the ideal option for people who have had abdominal surgery earlier.
In a laparoscopic appendectomy, your surgeon observes the appendix through a few small incisions in your abdomen. Then she/he will insert a small, thin tube known as a cannula. This cannula is used to inflate the abdomen with carbon dioxide gas. This gas permits your doctor to see your appendix more clearly.
Once your abdomen is inflated, a laparoscope will be inserted via the incision. The laparoscope is a long, thin tube with a light and camera attached to it. The camera will display the pictures on a screen, letting your surgeon observe inside your abdomen and guide the devices. After finding the appendix, it will be tied off with stitches and taken out. Then, the small incisions are cleaned, closed, and dressed.
Laparoscopic surgery has fewer risks than an open appendectomy procedure and usually has a shorter recovery time.
Draining an abscess before appendix surgical procedure
If the appendix has burst and an abscess has formed surrounding it, the abscess can be drained by inserting a tube through your skin into the abscess. Then Appendectomy may be done several weeks later after controlling the infection.
Antibiotics: Some doctors believe that antibiotics can be a safe and successful alternative for acute, uncomplicated appendicitis.
You’ll require to stop eating and drinking for at least eight hours prior to the appendectomy. Inform your doctor about any prescription or over-the-counter medicines you’re taking. You should also inform your doctor if you are:
Arrange for a family member or friend to drive you home after the process. An appendectomy is mostly done under general anesthesia, which can make you drowsy and unable to drive for some hours after surgical procedure.
An appendectomy is a quite simple and common surgery. However, there are some risks associated with the procedure, like:
However, the risks of an appendectomy are much less severe than the risks related with untreated appendicitis. An appendectomy is necessary to be done instantly to prevent abscesses and peritonitis from happening.
What is the Post Operating care for Appendicitis Surgical Treatment?
After the procedure, you will stay in the hospital for several hours for observation. Your vital signs, like your breathing and heart rate, will be monitored closely. Your doctor will also check for any adverse effects of the anesthesia or the surgery.
You will be able to go home the same day if your appendicitis is not severe. In the days following the procedure, you may experience moderate pain in the areas where incisions were made. Your surgeon can prescribe medication to relieve the pain. You may also be given antibiotics to avoid an infection after surgery. You may decrease your risk for infection by keeping the incisions clean. You should also watch for signs of infection, which include:
Complete recovery generally takes about four to six weeks. You may be advised to limit physical activity so your body can heal quickly. Go for a follow- up check up with your doctor within two to three weeks after the appendectomy.
Our Blogs
Characteristics of a Laparoscopic Surgeon
Laparoscopic or any kind of Surgery is not everyone’s cup of tea. Though it can be an extremely enjoyable, intellectually...
For best Consultation in Gurgaon
Chat with us onWhatsapp
Book Appointment