Appendicitis Flashcards
What is the most common abdominal surgical emergency?
Appendicitis
Appendicitis typically manifests due to blockage of what?
Lumen of the appendix
The majority of luminal blockages that cause appendicitis are caused by?
Fecaliths
What causes appendicitis in young children?
Vaccinations (rota-virus)
Patients with appendicitis will have what s/s?
Nausea/anorexia
RLQ pain
What is gold standard for dx of appendicitis?
CT
What labs should be done for patients with appendicitis?
CBC
Fecal Occult
UA
What medications should patients with appendicitis receive?
Broad spectrum antibiotics
What is definitive treatment for appendicitis?
Appendectomy
How long will appendicitis take to perforate?
Can occur within 6 hours but usually takes 24-36 hours
If a patient with appendicitis has sudden increase in pain and temporary relief, what is the concern?
Perforation