[2012] HcStudent63 (Default class): Appendicitis

Appendicitis

Causes:-the appendix becomes blocked (often by stool, a foreign body, or cancer) -blockage may also occur from infection because the appendix swells when you have an infection anywhere in the body (even if it is not near the appendix)-eating, drinking, or using pain remedies (heating pads, antacids, or laxatives) can cause an inflamed appendix to rupture

Who is affected?-rare under age 2-common between ages 10-30-1 in every 15 people will get it

Click the star for an article about the appendix.Is there good bacteria in the appendix?

What is your appendix?- 3 1/2 inch long tube- Extends form secum (large intestine)- Nobody knows the exact function of the appendix- We can live without it

Symptoms-pain in abdomen-loss of appetite-nausea-vomiting-abdominal swelling-fever-severe cramps-chills/shaking

Procedure(Appendectomy)-two different types -regular -laparoscopic-laparoscopic involves less pain and less recovery time-the laparoscopic approach has become more popular

-itis= inflammation-medical emergency-requires prompt surgery to remove appendix-if left untreated, the inflamed appendix will burst-when it bursts, it spills infection materials in the abdominal cavity (can lead to paritonitis which can be fatal)

More about Appendicitis

Prognosis-If your appendix is removed before it ruptures, you will likely get well very soon after surgery.-If your appendix ruptures before surgery, you will probably recover more slowly, and are more likely to develop an abscess or other complications.

- one theory for the existance of the appendix is that is acts as a storehouse for good bacteria- appendicitis is one of the most common causes of emergency abdominal surgery in the US

Location of incisionsfor a laparoscopic appendectomy

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Click the image above to learn more about laparoscopic appendectomies

WorksCited

Actual inflamed appendix during surgery