Our approach
When appendicitis is suspected, it is extremely important to establish the correct diagnosis as quickly as possible.
At MSI, we use a modern examination algorithm that includes clinical assessment, laboratory tests, and imaging. If the diagnosis is confirmed, the optimal treatment is laparoscopic removal of the appendix. This approach reduces the risk of complications, shortens the hospital stay, and allows a faster return to normal life.
What is appendicitis?
Appendicitis is an acute inflammation of the vermiform appendix of the cecum.
The disease most often occurs when the lumen of the appendix becomes blocked, which leads to inflammation and bacterial infection. Without timely treatment, perforation of the appendix, an abscess, or peritonitis may develop.
Why does appendicitis develop?
The main cause is impaired drainage of the contents of the appendix lumen.
This may be caused by:
- fecal stones (fecaliths)
- enlarged lymphoid tissue
- less often, foreign bodies or tumors
- parasitic infections (isolated cases)
In most cases, the exact cause cannot be determined.
Symptoms
The most typical symptoms are:
- pain that first appears around the navel and then moves to the lower right abdomen
- pain that worsens when walking or moving
- nausea and vomiting
- fever
- loss of appetite
- weakness
When to see a doctor
See a surgeon immediately if:
- you have acute abdominal pain
- the pain is located in the lower right abdomen
- the pain is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or fever
- the symptoms are getting worse quickly
- acute appendicitis is suspected
How is the diagnosis made?
The following are used to establish the diagnosis:
- consultation with a surgeon
- clinical examination
- blood tests
- ultrasound examination
- abdominal computed tomography (when indicated)
- assessment with modern clinical risk scores
How is appendicitis treated?
The main treatment for acute appendicitis is surgical removal of the appendix.
In certain clinical situations, conservative treatment of uncomplicated appendicitis is possible, but the decision is made individually in line with modern international guidelines.
Surgical treatment
Laparoscopic appendectomy is the gold standard of treatment.
At MSI we perform:
- laparoscopic appendectomy
- appendectomy for complicated appendicitis
- lavage and drainage of the abdominal cavity in peritonitis
- open surgery in cases where a laparoscopic procedure is impossible or unsafe
The laparoscopic approach means less postoperative pain, faster recovery, and a lower risk of infectious complications.
Recovery after treatment
After an uncomplicated laparoscopic appendectomy, most patients are discharged within 1–2 days.
At MSI, ERAS protocols are used, which include early mobilization, quick resumption of eating, and a return to normal physical activity.
Why choose MSI
- Preference for laparoscopic surgery
- Modern diagnosis of acute abdominal pain
- Experience in treating both uncomplicated and complicated appendicitis
- Adherence to WSES and SAGES international guidelines
- Enhanced recovery protocols (ERAS)
- Comprehensive patient support at every stage of treatment
Frequently Asked Questions
In most cases, yes. Laparoscopic appendectomy is the standard treatment for acute appendicitis. For some patients with an uncomplicated course, conservative treatment may be considered, but this decision is made individually.
Yes. Similar symptoms can occur with intestinal, urinary, or gynecological conditions. That is why a timely examination by a surgeon and modern diagnostic methods are important.
After laparoscopic appendectomy, most patients return to their everyday activities within 1–2 weeks. The time to full recovery depends on the form of appendicitis and the course of the postoperative period.
With timely care and surgery, the outlook is excellent. Laparoscopic appendectomy completely eliminates the disease, and once the appendix is removed, appendicitis cannot recur.