Lap Appendectomy Flashcards
Surgical Anatomy & Pathology
. Attached to cecum by the mesoappendix, which contains the appendices artery
. Frequently located upward & inward, behind the cecum called retrocecal
. Inflamed, infected appendix called appendicitis; often due to impacted feces
Preoperative Diagnostic Tests & Procedures
. Physical exam
. CT scan
. Laboratory test
Equipment & Instruments Unique to Procedure
. Laparoscopic equipment
. 5-mm trocar
. Hasson trocar (available according to surgeon’s preference)
. Laparoscopic instruments to include Babcock, curved grasping forceps, curved scissors, endoscopic linear stapler, ligating loop instrument, needle holder, suction irrigator, and bowel clamp
Supplies Unique to Procedure
. Specimen puch
. Local anesthetic of the surgeon’s choice for tracer sites
Preoperative Preparation
. Position: Supine w/ slight Trendelenburg & right side of OR table slightly elevated
. Anesthesia: General
. Skin Prep: Mid-chest to symphysis pubis & laterally as far as possible
. Draping: Square off with 4 towels-edge of upper towel placed mid-chest; lateral towels placed using anterior superior iliac spines as guide; edge of lower towel placed just above line of sympysis pubis; laparotomy drape
Practical Considerations
. Same as for other laparoscopic procedures
. Monitor will need to be placed at the foot of the bed with the surgeon standing near the head of the bed
. Be prepared to convert to open procedure if the appendix is ruptured or leaking upon visualization with laparoscope
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