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Acute appendicitis during pregnancy. Diagnosis and management
Archives of Surgery (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|December 1, 1985
Summary
Diagnosing acute appendicitis in pregnant patients is challenging due to altered symptoms. Prompt surgical intervention for suspected appendicitis in pregnancy is crucial to prevent complications and ensure positive outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Surgical Gastroenterology
Background:
- Acute appendicitis presents unique diagnostic challenges during pregnancy.
- The enlarging uterus alters the typical location of peritoneal signs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the clinical presentation and management of acute appendicitis in pregnant patients.
- To emphasize the importance of timely diagnosis and surgical intervention.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of twelve patients undergoing appendectomy during pregnancy or puerperium.
- Analysis of clinical presentation, diagnostic delays, and surgical outcomes.
Main Results:
- Delayed diagnosis is common, leading to increased risk of perforation.
- Perforation was associated with one maternal death and three fetal losses.
- No complications occurred in non-perforated cases.
Conclusions:
- Acute appendicitis in pregnancy requires prompt diagnosis and surgical management.
- Pregnancy should not be a reason to delay surgery for suspected appendicitis.
- Early intervention is key to improving maternal and fetal outcomes.