COMPLICATIONS

Appendicitis can cause serious

complications, for example:

 The perforation of the appendix.

WHAT IS?
Appendicitis is an inflammation of the
appendix, a bag in the shape of a finger
that projects from the colon on the lower
right side of the abdomen. The appendix
does not seem to have a specific
purpose.
APPENDICITIS
 An accumulation of pus that
. SINGS AND SYMPTOMS
The signs and symptoms of
appendicitis may include the
following:
• Sudden pain that begins on
the right side of the lower abdomen
• Sudden pain that starts
around the belly button and often
moves to the lower right side of the
abdomen
This can cause the infection to
spread through the abdomen
(peritonitis). This disease can be
life threatening and it is
necessary to do an immediate
surgery to remove the appendix
and clean the abdominal cavity.
forms in the abdomen. If the
appendix bursts, it is possible
that an accumulation of infection
(abscess) is created. In most
cases, the surgeon drains the
abscess by inserting a tube
through the abdominal wall to
the abscess. The tube is left in
place for two weeks and the
patient receives antibiotics to
fight the infection.

• Pain that gets worse when
you cough, walk or make other
sudden movements
• Nausea and vomiting
Once the infection is removed, surgery is
done to remove the appendix. In some
cases, the abscess is drained and the
appendix is removed immediately

• Loss of appetite

• Light fever that may get

worse as the disease progresses

• Constipation or diarrhea
An appendectomy is done using
either:

*Spinal anesthesia - You put medicine

in your back to numb it from the
waist down. They will also give you
medication to make you sleep.

*General anesthesia - You will be

asleep and will not feel any pain
during surgery.

The surgeon makes a small incision in

the lower right side of the abdominal
area and removes the appendix.

The appendix can also be removed

using small surgical incisions and a
camera. This is called a laparoscopic
appendectomy.