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Appendectomy
What is the appendix?
The appendix is ​​a small, thin extension of the large intestine (the colon). It is located in the lower right abdomen. The appendix has no specific function. Occasionally, feces block and this appendix becomes inflamed and infected. It then produces what is known as appendicitis. The treatment for appendicitis is to remove the appendix, or an appendectomy.
Who gets appendicitis?
Appendicitis is most common in children between 5 and 15 years, but can occur at any age. It occurs with equal frequency in both sexes.
How is appendicitis diagnosed?
The most important thing to make the diagnosis of appendicitis is clinical history and physical examination. Children with appendicitis usually complain of stomach pain and do not want to eat. The principle is generalized pain and gradually moves to the right lower abdomen part. Patients may have nausea, vomiting or diarrhea .. Some children have fever.
Additionally, blood samples were taken to determine the level of white blood cells. This level rises when present in the organism infection. You can also use x-ray studies, such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT scan), to help make the diagnosis.
What I can expect from the surgery?
The appendix can be removed with laparoscopic techniques (inserting a camera into the abdomen), or through a small incision on the right lower abdomen. The operation lasts about an hour.
When can my child is ready to go home?
Your child will be ready to go home when no fever, is eating a regular diet and can take medicine by mouth. This usually takes 1-2 days, unless your child's appendix has perforated. In that case, he / she will stay in the hospital a bit longer, receiving intravenous antibiotics.
What care is needed at home after surgery?
- Bathroom: Your child bathing in the shower 3-5 days after surgery.
- Activity: Your child can and should walk, and also up and down stairs; but you should not run, bike, play sports or participate in physical education for approximately 2 weeks.
- Diet: Your child can eat any food that is appropriate for their age.
- Medication: Many children need some pain medication for several days. Almost always, Tylenol or Motrin are sufficient to control pain.
When should I call the surgery team?
You should call your surgeon if your child has a fever of 101 F (38 degrees), vomiting, diarrhea, increased abdominal pain or is not eating. You should also call if the wound is red, swollen or begins to drain fluid.
When should I call Pedriatra child?
You should call your pediatrician if your child develops symptoms or have a problem that does not seem to have anything to do the operation, such as sore throat, nasal congestion, headache or cough.
When can my child return to school / daycare? Will you need a letter to excuse physical education?
Children can usually return to school a week after going home. They are not to participate in sports or physical education for 4 weeks. MUST NOT lift heavy things (more than 10 pounds, including school bag) for 4 weeks. Ask the surgical team a note for school.
What effects have surgery on growth and anddevelopment my child?
Your child may lose a little weight after surgery, but should recover once again her appetite. The operation must not have other long-term effects on growth and development of children.