Complicated Appendectomy
Cost: Subject to medical assessment
Hospitalization duration: Subject to medical assessment
What is a Complicated Appendectomy?
Complicated appendectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat advanced cases of appendicitis, where the appendix has developed complications, such as perforation, abscess, or severe infection. These cases require more careful intervention and a prolonged hospital stay to ensure the patient’s full recovery and to prevent secondary infections.
During surgery, the medical team removes the inflamed appendix and may drain the abdominal area if infection is present. Due to the complexity of the operation, advanced techniques are used to minimize the risk of further complications and to manage any secondary involvement in the abdominal cavity.
Includes
- Medical Team
The intervention is performed by a team specialized in abdominal surgery and, in many cases, an additional intensive care team to monitor the patient’s recovery.
- Laboratory
Complete pre-surgical studies to evaluate the patient’s general health. These studies may include blood tests, kidney and liver function studies, and other tests necessary to ensure that the patient is in optimal condition for surgery.
- Office
Imaging tests such as chest X-ray and abdominal ultrasound (US), essential for proper surgical planning and to determine the extent of infection or complication in the appendix.
- Preoperative evaluation by Internal Medicine + EKG
Complete evaluation by an internist and an electrocardiogram (ECG) to confirm that the patient can undergo surgery without major risks. This is especially important in complicated cases that may involve other organs or systems.
- Postoperative visits
Recovery is carefully monitored through regular visits by the medical team to monitor the patient’s progress and prevent infections or complications.
- Pathology Study
The removed appendix and any affected tissue is sent to a pathology laboratory for analysis, which is crucial to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out any possible complications that require further care.
Preparing for surgery
For complicated appendectomy, the medical team may require special preparation:
- Fasting for at least 6 to 8 hours before surgery.
- Discontinuation of certain medications as directed by your doctor, especially if they affect blood clotting.
- Adequate hydration and specific recommendations to strengthen the immune system and improve recovery.
Recovery
Recovery from a complicated appendectomy is slower compared to a simple appendectomy. During this period, the patient may require:
- Antibiotics to control or prevent further infection in the abdominal area.
- Intensive monitoring in the hospital to ensure a safe recovery, especially if there was severe infection or perforation.
- Wound care and pain control to prevent infection at the incision site.
Recovery time may vary, but patients are generally advised to avoid strenuous physical activities for at least 4 to 6 weeks.
Risks and Complications
Since this is a more complex procedure, some of the potential risks include:
- Infection in the wound or abdominal cavity, especially if there was a perforation.
- Abdominal abscesses if the infection is not completely eliminated.
- Respiratory problems due to the proximity of the surgery to the diaphragm, especially in patients who require prolonged bed rest.
The medical team works to reduce these risks, but it is important that the patient follows the postoperative recommendations to the letter.