Appendix

Question 1

What are the possible Positions of the appendix?

Answer 1

• Retrocecal
• Subcecal
• Pelvic
• Pre-ileal
• Post-ileal

Question 2

What is the blood supply of the appendix?

Answer 2

• Appendicular artery from the ileocolic artery
• Appendicular vein to SMV

Question 3

Why is appendicitis pain referred to the umbilicus?

Answer 3

• Pain initially starts in the periumbilical region as visceral pain from the appendix is conveyed in nerve fibres entering the spinal cord at the T10 level (the T10 dermatome covers the level of the umbilicus).
• Irritation of the parietal peritoneum by an inflamed appendix later on causes localization of pain to the RIF.