APPENDECTOMY

ACUTE APPENDICITIS: THE MOST COMMON SURGICAL EMERGENCY

Acute appendicitis occurs at all ages, in boys and girls alike.

The only treatment for appendicitis (inflammation of the appendix) is surgical; it consists of removing the diseased appendix (appendectomy) most often laparoscopically.

The patient is hospitalized, kept on an empty stomach (as before any surgery) and possibly hooked up to an IV. After a consultation with an anesthesiologist, the operation is performed; the patient will either be discharged the same evening (ambulatory surgery) or the next morning with a discharge order. Medical leave is required for a few days.

Complications from this procedure are very rare and most often due to a LATE diagnosis.

A biopsy, which will confirm the diagnosis, is systematically performed in a specialized laboratory.

CONCLUSION

Any ABDOMINAL PAIN IN THE RIGHT FLANK (often associated with fever and vomiting) REQUIRES URGENT MEDICAL ATTENTION.

Appendectomy can be performed on an outpatient basis.

♦ To make an appointment with Dr. Bruto RANDONE, Visceral and Digestive Surgeon, at the Clinique Internationale du Parc Monceau in Paris, France, click on Contact.