The acute abdomen Flashcards
1
Q
what is an acute abdomen?
A
= sudden severe abdominal pain, that is less than 24hours in duration
- less than 10days
- progressive intra-abdominal condition
2
Q
causes of acute abdomen?
A
- acute appendicitis
- acute pancreatitis
- acute peptic ulcer
- acute diverticulitis
- ectopic pregnancy
- peritonitis
- acute intestinal ischaemia
- acute cholecystitis
- volvulus
- acute renal colic
- leaking AAA
- bowel perforation
3
Q
describe gaurding.
A
Voluntary = patient tightness muscles too avoid pain Involuntary = spasm of abdominal muscles due to peritonitis
4
Q
what is rigidity a type of?
A
= involuntarily guarding
5
Q
what is rebound tenderness?
A
= gentle and slow pressure applied to abdomen followed by quick release of examining hand
