General
Information
DEFINITION--Removal of the vermiform appendix, an outgrowth of tissue from the
cecum, the first part of the large intestine.
BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Vermiform appendix; cecum; peritoneum.
REASONS FOR SURGERY--
SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH
- Alcoholism; obesity; smoking.
- Chronic heart, lung, liver or kidney disease.
- Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleep
inducers; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; cortisone; or laxatives. Caution:
If you suspect you have appendicitis, do not take laxatives.
- Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens;
marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.
What To Expect
WHO OPERATES--General surgeon.
WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital.
DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
- Before surgery: Blood and urine studies, x-rays of abdomen, ultrasound and CT (See Glossary).
- After surgery: Blood studies.
ANESTHESIA--General anesthesia by injection and inhalation with an airway tube
placed in the windpipe or spinal anesthesia.
DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION
- An incision is made in the lower abdomen.
- The abdominal muscles and organs are separated and the appendix is isolated, cut free
and removed. The intestine is closed, cauterized and sterilized to prevent infection.
- The area around the appendix is inspected for undetected diseases. Other surgeries may
be performed at this time.
- Any fluid or pus from the infected appendix is suctioned away.
- Sometimes, a drain is placed in the area left by the removed appendix. The abdominal
cavity is closed, and the skin is closed with sutures, which usually can be removed 1 week
after surgery.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
- Excessive bleeding.
- Surgical-wound infection.
- Inadvertent injury to the ureter.
- Intra-abdominal abscess.
- Bowel obstruction.
AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--3 to 5 days.
PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 3
weeks for recovery from surgery.
Postoperative Care
> Move and elevate legs often while resting in bed to decrease the likelihood of
deep--vein blood clots.
> You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.
> To help recovery and aid your well--
being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.
- Avoid vigorous exercise for 6 weeks after surgery. > Resume driving 9 days after
returning home.
DIET--Clear liquid diet until the gastrointestinal tract begins to function again.
Then eat a well--balanced diet to promote healing.
Call Your Doctor If
> Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.
- You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill
feeling and fever.
- You experience new symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, constipation or abdominal
swelling.
