Appendicitis

Inflammation of Appendix

Overview

Appendicitis is caused by the inflammation of the appendix. It is the most common surgical emergency procedures performed by surgeons all around the world.

Appendicitis is a finger shaped pouch which is present in the right lower part of the abdomen.
Appendicitis pain is mostly felt in the lower right abdomen area. In most cases, the pain begins around the navel.

If left untreated, the appendix can burst and cause the bacteria to fall into the abdominal cavity which can be life threatening.

Symptoms

The pain threshold may vary from patient to patient. The most common signs and symptoms of appendicitis are:

Extreme Pain Around Navel

Lower Right Abdominal Pain

Abdominal Bloating

Constipation or Diarrhea

Nausea and Vomiting

Fever

Causes

The most common cause of appendicitis is the blockage of lining in the appendix which results in infection. Some other common causes may include:

Diagnosis

Other than regular physical examination, a doctor may require to perform some tests to determine the best way of treatment. The tests may include:

Blood Tests

Ultrasound

Urine Test

CT Scan

When to See a Doctor

Make an appointment right away if any worrisome symptoms appear such as:

Treatment

In most cases, a surgeon will use a Laparoscopic Procedure to remove the appendix.
During laparoscopic surgery, a surgeon inserts special surgical tools along with a camera to remove the appendix. If your appendix has ruptured and the infection has spread, your surgeon may need to perform an open surgery so that your abdominal cavity can be cleaned.

Our team of expert surgeons has been performing laparoscopic and open surgeries for the removal of the appendix for the past 15 years. This is the gold standard treatment to treat appendicitis worldwide and is considered to be the most simple and safe procedure to date. Our facility Maroof International Hospital has state-of-the-art operation theaters equipped with the world’s most advanced equipment to provide the best quality treatment to our patients.

Our Chief of Surgery Dr. Faisal Murad has successfully performed over 6000 successful surgical procedures not only in Pakistan but all around the world. With an enhanced recovery program at our center, most of the patients go home within 24 hours and resume their normal diet and activities within a week.

Risks, Complications & Preventions

Appendicitis is a common health issue and is easily curable if treated timely. If not, then complications like ruptured appendix and puss in abdomen can occur.

There is no known way to prevent appendicitis but a healthy lifestyle and consuming high fiber food can minimise its occurrence.