How is appendicitis surgery done?

Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
Updated on January 26, 2025
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Appendicitis currently primarily involves two surgical methods. One is appendectomy via laparoscopy, and the other is the traditional method involving an incision at McBurney's point to remove the appendix. While the surgical methods differ, the principle behind the surgery is the same: in the abdominal cavity, the appendix is separated from the mesentery, then the appendiceal artery is ligated and the appendix is removed from the base. The stump is disinfected with iodine, and purse-string sutures are used to wrap the stump. If there is an appendiceal perforation causing diffuse peritonitis, it is necessary to thoroughly clean the pus from the abdominal cavity, then check that no surgical instruments are left inside before closing the abdomen. Postoperatively, the use of antibiotic medication depends on the patient's condition, and a minimum rest period of two weeks is required. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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Acute appendicitis nursing issues

Patients with acute appendicitis should pay attention to diet control during the shivering phase and should refrain from eating or drinking during the attack phase and preoperative preparations. For those with noticeable abdominal pain, a semi-recumbent position should be adopted to reduce muscle tension and alleviate pain. After surgery, it is crucial to closely monitor vital signs, measuring respiration, blood pressure, pulse, etc. On the first day post-surgery, a semi-liquid diet may be chosen, and a normal diet can be resumed on days 3 to 4 post-surgery. It is important to ensure rest, and heavy physical labor should be avoided within two weeks after the surgery.

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Written by Huang Gang
Gastroenterology
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Acute appendicitis clinical features

Acute appendicitis generally presents primarily as abdominal pain, specifically migratory pain to the lower right abdomen. Initially, the patient may experience stomach pain, which gradually shifts to pain in the lower right abdomen. Whether it is appendicitis needs to be diagnosed by a physical examination by a doctor, or an ultrasound of the appendix during the acute phase can be performed. If the appendix appears significantly swollen on the ultrasound, it can also confirm the diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Typically, the best treatment for acute appendicitis is surgery, especially if the condition is very severe and critical, as it may lead to perforation of the appendix and result in purulent peritonitis, which is very serious and life-threatening. Therefore, once diagnosed with acute appendicitis, it is best to be hospitalized for surgery.

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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.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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How long to rest after appendicitis surgery?

After an appendectomy, if there is no significant suppuration or infection, a recovery period of at least two weeks is required. During this period, it is important to rest, pay attention to diet, increase nutrition, and increase protein intake, such as eating more chicken, fish, and soy products. Also, consume more vegetables and fruits, engage in appropriate exercises to increase gastrointestinal motility. The surgical incision should be dressed regularly, and sutures can be removed after a week post-operation, then depending on the condition, decide whether to change the dressing again.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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What department should I go to for appendicitis?

Appendicitis is a very common disease in general surgery, so you can visit the general surgery department at the hospital. The main symptoms of appendicitis are abdominal pain, vomiting, or fever, with the pain being quite severe in acute cases. If the appendix becomes suppurative, it can lead to the formation of a peri-appendicular abscess or appendix perforation, which then causes peritoneal irritation. Active surgical treatment should be pursued, options include traditional removal surgery or laparoscopic appendix removal. Postoperative care should be tailored to the condition of the patient, and rest is essential.