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Surgical Specialty News

 

Department of Surgery

Division of Colorectal Surgery

Conditions We Treat

Appendicitis

What is Appendicitis

The appendix is a small, finger-shaped pouch of intestinal tissue attached to the large intestine. When the appendix becomes inflamed or infected the condition is called appendicitis. Blockage of the opening of the appendix into the bowel by a small hard stool fragment is believed to be a frequent cause of appendicitis.

Symptoms of Appendicitis

  • Loss of appetite and nausea
  • Vomiting and a low-grade fever
  • Pain in the lower-right abdomen above the pelvis

If the appendix has ruptured - THIS IS AN EMERGENCY

  • You may suddenly feel better, but the pain will return and you begin to feel worse
  • The area may feel hard and will be painful when touched

Learn more About Appendicitis

Surgical Treatment for Appendicitis

An infected appendix must be surgically removed because if it becomes perforated (leaks), this can lead to infection of the entire abdominal space (peritonitis), which can be fatal.