The appendix is a tubular structure attached to the cecum just below the point where the small intestine opens in the large intestine
Appendix does not participate in the digestive function of the intestines. It is very rich in lymphoid tissue and is prone to inflammation/infection. Appendicitis refers to an infection or inflammation of the child's appendix. The most common cause of severe abdominal discomfort in children is appendicitis.
Appendicitis means inflammation/infection of the appendix in a child. There are mainly two ways in which an appendix gets inflamed.
The onset is very typical in children. Loss of appetite occurs just before the pain begins in children, followed by pain in the
some other unusual features, such as diarrhoea if the appendix is located behind the intestines or difficulty straightening the right leg if the back muscles become inflamed.
Clinical history and examination of a child is the most important means of diagnosis supported by few blood tests. USG of the abdomen is also commonly used. Rarely a CECT abdomen is needed in the child.
In most cases, the appendicectomy is done in an emergency. In medically managed cases, often interval appendicectomy after 6-12 weeks is recommended.
Medical management is sometimes successful in this condition, with its inherent risks.
There are two methods to do appendicectomy
Both have their proponents and opponents. An open appendicectomy may be preferred in cases where complications have already occurred, e.g. an abscess formation or perforation leading to generalised peritonitis. In such situations, the tissues may be adherent, inflamed and fragile, and the surgeon may be more confident in handling them during an open procedure. It may also be quicker. All other cases can be managed by laparoscopy
For the majority of children, if surgery is done by trained Paediatric surgeons, complications are rare. Reported complications include wound infection, abscess, delayed subacute obstruction etc.
After surgery, children typically do not experience long-term issues. In rare cases, repeat operations may be necessary, such as in instances of generalized peritonitis where the initial procedure may involve draining pus and fluids before performing an appendectomy later. Similarly, abscesses may initially be treated with drainage, with an appendectomy deferred to a later procedure.
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The appendix, a small pouch-like organ situated in the lower right belly, becomes inflamed, and this condition is known as appendicitis. If not treated right once, it can become uncomfortable and even cause significant consequences.
Appendicitis is often caused by the blockage of the appendix's opening, leading to bacterial growth, infection, and inflammation. The blockage can result from stool, foreign objects, or an enlarged lymph node.
Common symptoms include abdominal pain starting near the belly button and shifting to the lower right side, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fever, and pain during movement.
Diagnosis involves a physical examination, reviewing medical history, and often imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan to visualize the inflamed appendix.
In most cases, surgical removal of the inflamed appendix (appendectomy) is the standard treatment to prevent rupture and complications. Laparoscopic or open surgery may be used.
An infected appendix might rupture if neglected, causing infection to spread throughout the abdomen (peritonitis) and leading to potentially life-threatening complications.
Yes, appendicitis can affect people of all ages, including children. However, symptoms in children might differ, and early diagnosis is crucial.
Appendicitis requires immediate medical attention. If symptoms of abdominal pain, fever, and vomiting develop, it's important to seek medical care promptly.
While it's not always preventable, maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding constipation might reduce the risk of developing appendicitis.
Appendectomy is generally a safe procedure. However, as with any surgery, there can be risks of infection, bleeding, or complications related to anesthesia. Most individuals recover well with proper postoperative care.
Yes, conditions like ovarian cysts, urinary tract infections, and gastroenteritis can cause abdominal pain and mimic appendicitis symptoms. Proper diagnosis is important to rule out other causes.
Once the appendix is removed, the likelihood of recurrent appendicitis is extremely low. The risk of future appendicitis is eliminated by the surgery.
