Appendicitis during pregnancy

Twenty-four pregnant women with acute appendicitis received exploratory laparotomy during an 8-year period. Abdominal pain accompanied with nausea and vomiting were the most common symptoms. Abdominal tenderness and rebounding pain were the most reliable physical signs. Leukocytosis with WBC count greater than 15,000/cu mm and granulocytes greater than 87% and prolonged symptomatic duration were indications that appendiceal perforation might have occurred. A McBurney's incision and spinal anesthesia were preferred for appendectomy during pregnancy. In cases of uncomplicated appendicitis, tocolytic agents and antibiotics were not routinely used. Premature labor occurred in 21% of patients during postoperative period.