Paediatric laparoscopic appendicectomy

Appendicitis is a common emergency surgical condition in children caused by inflammation of the appendix, a small projection of the large intestine. If left untreated, appendicitis can lead to serious complications, including rupture of the appendix and peritonitis. Laparoscopic appendectomy is a modern minimally invasive surgical method that allows for the effective removal of the appendix with minimal trauma to the patient. At "Dobrobut" Medical Center, experienced doctors perform laparoscopic appendectomy, ensuring reliable treatment and quick recovery for children.

When to See a Doctor

Parents should seek urgent medical attention if their child exhibits any of the following symptoms which may indicate appendicitis:

• Abdominal pain. Initially, the pain may occur near the navel and then shift to the lower right quadrant of the abdomen, where it becomes more intense.
• Nausea and vomiting: These are signs of irritation in the gastrointestinal tract that often accompany appendicitis.
• Loss of appetite: A child with appendicitis may refuse food or demonstrate significant decreases in appetite.
• Mild or moderate fever accompanying abdominal pain indicates an inflammatory or infectious process.
• Diarrhea or constipation may also be associated with appendicitis.
• Swelling or tenderness: The abdomen may be swollen and sensitive to touch, especially in the lower right area.

Indications and Contraindications for Laparoscopic Appendectomy

Laparoscopic appendectomy is indicated in the following situations:

• Suspected appendicitis: Clinical symptoms, the child's complaints, and physical examination results may indicate the need for surgical intervention to prevent complications.
• Perforation of the appendix: If the appendix has ruptured, urgent surgery is necessary to remove infected tissue and flush the abdominal cavity.
• Abscess formation. The presence of an abscess around the appendix additionally requires surgical drainage of the abdominal cavity.

Contraindications for laparoscopic appendectomy may include serious comorbid conditions such as cardiac or respiratory issues that may complicate the surgical procedure and anesthesia.

Diagnosis

To determine the necessity of appendectomy, pediatric surgeons at "Dobrobut" conduct a comprehensive examination. This includes a full assessment, evaluation of the degree and location of abdominal pain, the child's overall health status, and blood tests to detect the body's response to infection and inflammatory processes in the abdominal cavity. Additional imaging studies, such as ultrasound or computed tomography, may be used to obtain clear images of the appendix and surrounding structures.

How the Procedure is Conducted

Laparoscopic appendectomy at "Dobrobut" Medical Center is typically performed as follows:

1. Preparation: Preoperative consultation with the surgeon and anesthesiologist, including dietary restrictions regarding food and drink before the intervention.
2. General anesthesia.
3. The surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdomen for the introduction of the laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) and other microsurgical instruments.
4. Removal of the appendix: All maneuvers are conducted under the control of the laparoscope, allowing the surgeon to carefully remove the inflamed appendix while minimizing impact on neighboring tissues.
5. Closing the incisions. After successfully removing the appendix, the small incisions are closed with absorbable sutures or adhesive dressings to ensure minimal scarring.

Recovery

The recovery process after laparoscopic appendectomy is generally smooth and takes less time than after traditional surgery. After the operation, the patient remains under observation in the recovery room for several hours for monitoring of vital signs and recovery from anesthesia. Pain relief medications appropriate for the child’s age are administered as necessary.

Feeding starts with clear liquids, gradually transitioning to regular food depending on the child’s condition and rate of recovery. It’s essential to follow recommendations regarding physical activity restrictions for the first few days post-surgery to avoid stress on the abdominal wall.

Scheduled follow-up visits allow the doctor to assess the healing process, check the condition of the stitches, and address any questions from parents regarding the child's condition and prevention of recurrence.

Complications

Complications following laparoscopic treatment of appendicitis in children are relatively rare. These may include infections, bleeding, damage to surrounding tissues or organs, and the formation of adhesions that can affect intestinal function. However, our surgeons adhere to stringent standards when performing the procedure, minimizing these risks.

Prevention

While it is impossible to completely prevent appendicitis, parents can take certain measures to reduce the risks of its development and maintain gastrointestinal health, including:

• Educating parents about the early signs of appendicitis. Quick diagnosis and treatment can prevent the development of complications.
• Maintaining a balanced diet: Following a balanced diet with sufficient fiber can promote healthy digestion and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal problems.
• Regular visits to the pediatrician can help monitor the child's health and identify potential issues early.
• Timely treatment of gastrointestinal disorders can help avoid complications that may lead to appendicitis.

Implementing modern laparoscopic techniques at "Dobrobut" Medical Center ensures minimal discomfort and quick recovery to normal life, along with effective treatment and complete healing.

You can schedule a consultation through the form on our website or by contacting our center via phone. Our priority is the safety, comfort, and health of every child throughout the treatment process.