Medical Management for Appendicitis

Medical Management

Medical management of appendicitis primarily involves the administration of antibiotics and supportive care including: 

• Antibiotic Therapy: Antibiotics are prescribed to help control the infection associated with appendicitis. They are administered intravenously (IV) to ensure effective delivery throughout the body. The specific choice of antibiotics may vary based on the severity of the infection and local antimicrobial resistance patterns. Antibiotic therapy aims to reduce inflammation and prevent the spread of infection until the surgical procedure can be performed.
• Pain Management: Pain relief is an important aspect of medical management for appendicitis. Intravenous pain medications, such as opioids, may be given to alleviate the discomfort associated with the inflamed appendix. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also be used to help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Pain management allows for improved comfort and helps the patient prepare for surgery.
• Fluids and Nutrition: Intravenous fluids are provided to ensure proper hydration and maintain electrolyte balance. Adequate hydration is important for overall well-being and supports the body during the healing process. If oral intake is not possible due to pain or surgical preparation, intravenous nutrition may be considered to meet the body's nutritional needs.
• Monitoring and Observation: Patients with appendicitis who are managed conservatively are closely monitored for any signs of worsening infection or complications. Vital signs, including temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure, are regularly monitored. Abdominal examinations are performed to assess for any changes in pain or tenderness. Diagnostic imaging, such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scans, may be repeated to evaluate the appendix's condition and monitor the patient's progress.

These measures are typically temporary and serve as a bridge until surgical intervention can be performed. In most cases of appendicitis, surgical removal of the inflamed appendix  is the standard treatment