Acute Appendicitis in Pregnancy: a Diagnostic and Management Challenge
- Author:
Zainur Rashid Z
;
Sulaiha SA
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Appendicitis, pregnancy, epidemiology, diagnosis, investigation, treatment
- From:
The International Medical Journal Malaysia
2014;13(1):77-80
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Acute appendicitis is the most common extra-uterine surgical emergency encountered during pregnancy, but
an accurate diagnosis is still an enigma. Anatomical shifting of the appendix by the enlarging uterus makes
the clinical and sonographic diagnosis difficult. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent
perforation, which increases the risk of fetal and maternal death. Surgical intervention, either by an open
laparotomy or laparoscopy is the most appropriate treatment for appendicitis. This article reviews the
epidemiology, clinical diagnosis, investigation, complications and treatment of acute appendicitis in pregnancy.
