Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 29, 2026
04:38
Subcostal Specimen Removal in Completely Portal Robotic Lobectomy
Published on: April 19, 2024
Substantial postoperative pain is common among children undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy
Maggie J Tomecka1, Andrey V Bortsov, Natalie R Miller
1Department of Anesthesiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7455, USA. mtomecka@aims.unc.edu
Paediatric Anaesthesia
|October 1, 2011
Summary
Postoperative pain is common in children after laparoscopic appendectomy, with one in three experiencing significant pain on surgery day. Predictors of this substantial pain remain unclear, necessitating further research.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Pain Management
- Clinical Outcomes
Background:
- Laparoscopic appendectomy is a frequent pediatric surgical procedure.
- The postoperative pain experience in children undergoing this surgery is not well-documented.
- This study aimed to describe the postoperative pain experienced by pediatric patients after laparoscopic appendectomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the postoperative pain experience in children following laparoscopic appendectomy.
- To identify the prevalence of substantial postoperative pain.
- To explore predictors of substantial pain in this population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 186 children (aged 9-17) undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy (2004-2010).
- Analysis of self-reported pain scores (0-10 numeric rating scale) during hospitalization.
- Definition of substantial pain as ≥60% of pain ratings being moderate/severe (≥4) within a time period.
Main Results:
- One in three children experienced substantial postoperative pain on the day of surgery.
- One in five children continued to experience substantial pain the following day.
- Common demographic and clinical factors were poor predictors of substantial pain.
Conclusions:
- Substantial postoperative pain is prevalent in children after laparoscopic appendectomy.
- Further investigation into pediatric postoperative pain after common surgical procedures is warranted.
- Improved understanding of pain management strategies is needed for this patient group.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy
Sigmoidoscopy and laparoscopy are distinct medical procedures that enable physicians to internally inspect different parts of the GI tract. Although they serve different purposes, each is essential for diagnosing and, in some cases, treating various medical conditions.
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
01:29Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Diagnosing and managing appendicitis requires a structured and comprehensive approach that spans from initial assessment to postoperative care. Here is an overview of the process:
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
01:22Appendicitis-I: Introduction
The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
01:19Appendicitis
Appendicitis is an acute inflammatory condition of the vermiform appendix, most commonly caused by obstruction of its lumen. The appendix is a narrow, blind-ended pouch that extends from the cecum, making it particularly prone to obstruction. Causes include fecaliths, lymphoid hyperplasia (often after viral infections), parasites, tumors, or foreign bodies. This obstruction initiates a cascade of pathological changes.Luminal Obstruction and Early InflammationAfter obstruction, normal mucosal...
01:23Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management
During the postoperative period, it is crucial to focus on maintaining circulation, identifying and managing potential complications, and planning for discharge.Nursing AssessmentVital signs monitoring: Regularly monitor vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature, to detect early signs of complications such as bleeding and infection.Circulation assessment: Monitor pulses, perform Doppler assessments, and check capillary refill, color, temperature, and...