Appendix Flashcards
Which artery supplies the appendix?
The appendicular
What can vary in location in different people?
The tip
When are the peaks in incidence of appendicitis?
Under 25 and then again in the elderly
Where does the pain move to in appendicitis and why is this?
From the middle towards the right due to the shift of infection from proximal to distal
Which morbidity can a burst appendix cause?
Peritonitis if contents leak into the peritoneum
What occurs to peoples appetite in appendicitis?
It disappears - if hungry, unlikely to have appendicitis (unless obese)
Is vomiting associated with appendicitis?
Only 1 or 2
What are the clinical signs of appendicitis?
Mild pyrexia
Mild tachycardia
Guarding
Rebound pain
What investigation can diagnose appendicitis?
None - avoid AXR due to high radiation
Must access surgically to identify
What are the symptoms of appendicitis?
Flushed red face
Sore to move/cough/laugh
Horrible smell on breath
What is the treatment for appendicitis?
Usually surgery
