Causes of Acute Appendicitis

Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 08, 2024
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The causes of acute appendicitis mainly include two types: one is the obstruction of the appendiceal lumen, and the other is infection within the appendiceal lumen. The appendix is a tube that communicates with the cecum. If it is blocked by fecoliths or fecal masses, it can lead to increased pressure inside the appendiceal lumen, damage to the mucosa, and bacterial invasion causing infection, which directly leads to acute inflammation. At the same time, gastrointestinal dysfunction can also cause spasm of appendix muscles and blood vessels, leading to blood supply disturbances. Irregular lifestyle habits, overeating, and engaging in vigorous activities after meals can all trigger acute appendicitis.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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How is acute appendicitis treated?

Acute appendicitis treatment primarily involves surgical methods, where the inflamed, suppurative, or perforated appendix is excised during the procedure, and then the base of the appendix is sutured. Moreover, if there is suppuration, it is necessary to irrigate the peritoneal cavity to prevent intra-abdominal infections. After the surgery, fluid therapy should be administered based on the patient's condition. In cases of perforation or suppuration, antibiotics should be used post-operatively. For simple appendicitis, post-operative fluid replenishment is generally sufficient, and antibiotics are not required. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Gastroenterology
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Anesthesia methods for acute appendicitis

The anesthesia method for acute appendicitis is related to the type of surgical treatment. If laparoscopic appendectomy is chosen, general anesthesia is usually required. If a traditional McBurney point incision is used for appendectomy, spinal anesthesia is primarily chosen. Additionally, after anesthesia, gastrointestinal function will be somewhat restricted. Until there is no gas or bowel movement from the rectum, patients should not eat after surgery. Only when the rectum starts to pass gas, indicating that gastrointestinal function is beginning to recover, can the patient begin to consume soft foods.

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How is acute appendicitis diagnosed?

The definitive diagnosis of acute appendicitis is primarily through clinical physical examination and auxiliary tests. Based on typical symptoms of acute appendicitis, such as migratory right lower abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, fever, and a few patients may have symptoms of constipation or diarrhea. There is obvious tenderness and rebound pain when pressing on the abdomen. Additionally, an abdominal ultrasound can indicate swelling of the appendix lumen and a significant increase in appendix size. These aspects can lead to a preliminary diagnosis, and once acute appendicitis is confirmed, surgical treatment should be carried out.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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How is acute appendicitis diagnosed?

The diagnosis of acute appendicitis is primarily based on clinical symptoms, signs, and auxiliary examinations. The patient describes abdominal pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting. During the physical examination, migratory pain in the lower right abdomen and significant rebound tenderness upon palpation are noted. Additionally, ultrasound diagnostics suggest swelling of the appendix lumen, all indicative of acute appendicitis. For acute appendicitis, once confirmed, surgery is generally required to remove the appendix, which is the only way to completely cure acute appendicitis.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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How is acute appendicitis treated?

The principle of treating acute appendicitis is to rehydrate and fight infection, complete related auxiliary examinations, and then carry out an emergency appendectomy. Acute appendicitis can be controlled by medication, but the effectiveness of medications is limited; most cases still require the removal of the appendix through surgery. Currently, laparoscopic appendectomy is an available option. This method is relatively more complex, but it allows for faster recovery and less trauma post-surgery, though it tends to be more expensive.