Appendicitis McBurney's point location

Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
Updated on April 04, 2025
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McBurney's point is a point of tenderness on the body surface during an episode of appendicitis, located on the right side of the abdomen, specifically at the outer third of the line connecting the navel to the right anterior superior iliac spine. If the appendix is significantly swollen or suppurative, there will be intense tenderness and rebound pain at McBurney's point. The tenderness and rebound pain at McBurney's point are also important physical examination signs for the clinical diagnosis of appendicitis. Based on the tenderness at McBurney's point, a preliminary diagnosis of appendicitis can be made, and then, the state of appendiceal swelling can be examined by abdominal ultrasound to choose a systematic treatment based on the results.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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What are the symptoms of appendicitis?

Appendicitis is an acute inflammation occurring in the lumen of the appendix. The primary symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal tenderness, and rebound pain. Migratory right lower abdominal pain is a common indicator used for diagnosing appendicitis. Additionally, appendicitis located posterior to the peritoneum may also present with radiating pain in the lower back. Once appendicitis is diagnosed, surgical treatment is required, except for elderly or frail individuals who cannot tolerate surgery and may opt for conservative treatment. Laparoscopic appendectomy is a commonly used surgical method, as it involves less bleeding during surgery and faster recovery afterwards. Postoperative care should be emphasized, with adjustments in diet, and an increased intake of vegetables to prevent constipation.

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Written by Xu Jun Hui
General Surgery
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Causes of Appendicitis

The appendix is connected to the cecum at one end, has a narrow lumen, and is rich in lymphatic tissue. The anatomical basis of the appendix makes it prone to inflammation. Generally, appendicitis is caused by different obstructions in the appendix, such as fecaliths, fecal masses, food residues, and parasites like roundworms, which can all lead to obstruction of the appendix and trigger acute appendicitis. Additionally, gastrointestinal dysfunction can also cause spasms and contractions of the muscles in the appendix wall, affecting the emptying of the appendix and its blood circulation, leading to inflammation of the appendix. Appendicitis requires timely treatment, and surgery might be necessary for symptomatic support.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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Does appendicitis surgery leave a scar?

Appendectomy requires surgery, so there will be scars afterward. The scars from minimally invasive surgery are relatively small, with only three incisions on the skin surface, and possibly leaving a suture line post-recovery. In contrast, the traditional surgical approach through McBurney's point results in a larger incision and consequently, a larger scar. It is recommended to use scar removal creams during the postoperative recovery period, as they can be somewhat effective. Additionally, it is important to rest after surgery, with at least two weeks of rest recommended, and to increase protein intake to aid in wound healing.

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Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
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Which location does appendicitis hurt?

The typical symptom of appendicitis is pain in the lower right abdomen. Generally, during acute appendicitis, the pain can last for several hours or even longer, with about 70% to 80% of patients experiencing characteristic migratory pain in the lower right abdomen. Migratory pain in the lower right abdomen refers to initial pain in the upper abdomen that later manifests as persistent pain in the lower right abdomen. However, some patients initially present with pain in the lower right abdomen directly. In some cases of pregnant women with acute appendicitis, due to the appendix being pushed upward by the enlarged uterus, pain can also occur in the upper right abdomen. Additionally, acute appendicitis is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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Is appendicitis prone to recurrence?

For acute appendicitis, if the appendix is not removed surgically, it is relatively prone to recurrence, and chronic appendicitis may also develop. Therefore, once appendicitis is diagnosed, surgery to remove the appendix is generally required. The more commonly used surgical method is laparoscopic appendectomy. This method involves less bleeding during the surgery and quicker postoperative recovery, with minimal damage to the body. Only small scars can be seen on the body surface, making it a preferable option for those concerned about aesthetics.