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Acute appendicitis in pregnancy: complications and subsequent management
A C Halvorsen1, B Brandt, J J Andreasen
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
The European Journal of Surgery = Acta Chirurgica
|November 1, 1992
Summary
Surgical management of acute appendicitis during pregnancy is safe. Prompt appendix removal is recommended, with prophylactic antibiotics and tocolytics, but C-section only if obstetrically indicated.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Surgical Gastroenterology
Background:
- Acute appendicitis is a common surgical emergency.
- Appendicitis in pregnancy presents diagnostic challenges and potential risks to both mother and fetus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish guidelines for managing acute appendicitis during pregnancy.
- To evaluate the safety and outcomes of appendectomy in pregnant patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 16 patients operated on for acute appendicitis between 1974 and 1988.
- Review of clinical data, surgical procedures, and pregnancy outcomes.
Main Results:
- Histological confirmation of appendicitis in 75% of cases.
- One fetal demise occurred in a patient with a complicated appendicitis and abscess.
- Uncomplicated appendectomies did not affect pregnancy progression or delivery outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Surgical intervention for suspected appendicitis in pregnancy is advised and does not negatively impact pregnancy.
- Prophylactic antibiotics and tocolytic agents are recommended for all cases.
- Cesarean section should be reserved for clear obstetric indications.