Post-Appendectomy Concerns: Abdominal Discomfort and Adhesions

It has been two months since the appendectomy?

Hello Dr.
Lin,
I have some health concerns that I would like to discuss with you.
On August 3rd, I underwent an appendectomy at Min-Sheng Hospital on Jingguo Road in Taoyuan and was hospitalized for four days.
After being discharged (which was seven days post-surgery when the sutures from the three small incisions from the minimally invasive procedure were removed), I asked the doctor during my follow-up appointment if I needed any further abdominal examinations.
Dr.
Huang indicated that it was unnecessary.

Now, 2.5 months post-appendectomy, I still experience intermittent swelling in my right abdomen, and in recent weeks, the sensation of pressure and discomfort has become more pronounced.
This discomfort occurs during specific actions, such as sneezing, bending down to pick something up, or stretching my legs.
Given these symptoms, I wonder if I might be experiencing intestinal adhesions related to my appendectomy.

Do you think I need to undergo any specific tests? I admit that I do not have a strong understanding of general medical knowledge, and my discomfort has led to concerns and a desire to understand whether I should arrange for a follow-up examination.
While an appendectomy may be considered a minor surgery among abdominal procedures, I believe that abdominal ultrasound or CT scans should be at the discretion of the physician.
It is important for doctors to acknowledge patients' concerns and provide thorough explanations to alleviate excessive worry or determine if further treatment is necessary.

Having a doctor who is attentive, willing to listen, and takes the time to understand patients' needs is truly important for us.
Thank you.

Miss Liu, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/25

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It has been 2.5 months since the appendectomy, and there is still an intermittent feeling of swelling in the right abdomen, raising concerns about adhesions.
Wound healing naturally requires time, and preventing adhesions should be considered both during and after surgery.
After the operation, it is advisable to consume easily digestible foods, maintain good bowel habits, and engage in moderate physical activity to help prevent adhesions.
Generally, abdominal ultrasound primarily examines the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys, with less focus on the intestines.
Occasionally, air interference or equipment issues may arise, so it may be necessary to specify this.
After surgery, if there are concerns about poor wound healing or infection, symptoms such as fever and elevated white blood cell count may occur.
Adhesions are not easily diagnosed through imaging.
A CT scan is indicated if there is suspicion of bowel obstruction, tumors, or abscesses, and further examination is recommended in such cases.
It is advised to rest well to promote wound healing, prevent adhesions, maintain intestinal health, and have regular follow-ups.
Wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2022/10/25

More Info

Post-appendectomy concerns, particularly regarding abdominal discomfort and the possibility of adhesions, are common among patients who have undergone appendectomy. Understanding these symptoms and their implications is crucial for recovery and peace of mind.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that after any abdominal surgery, including an appendectomy, patients may experience a range of sensations in the abdominal area. These can include swelling, discomfort, and even sharp pains, particularly around the surgical site. The body undergoes a healing process that can involve inflammation and the formation of scar tissue, which is a normal part of recovery. However, if you are experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms, it is essential to communicate these concerns with your healthcare provider.

In your case, the swelling and pushing sensation in the right abdomen, especially during activities like sneezing, bending, or stretching, could indeed suggest the presence of adhesions. Adhesions are bands of scar tissue that can form between abdominal tissues and organs after surgery. They can cause organs to stick together or to the abdominal wall, leading to discomfort or pain. While many patients experience some degree of adhesions after surgery, not all will have significant symptoms.
To assess the situation further, your doctor may recommend imaging studies such as an abdominal ultrasound or a CT scan. These tests can help visualize the abdominal organs and identify any abnormalities, including the presence of adhesions or other complications. If adhesions are suspected, the imaging results can guide your doctor in determining the best course of action.

In terms of your recovery, it is essential to follow your doctor's advice regarding activity levels. While light activity is encouraged to promote healing, it is also important to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous movements that could exacerbate your symptoms. If you find that certain movements consistently trigger discomfort, it may be beneficial to modify those activities until you have fully healed.

Additionally, if you are experiencing significant discomfort or if your symptoms are impacting your daily life, it is advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider. They can perform a physical examination and discuss your symptoms in detail, which may provide further insights into your condition.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that patient-doctor communication is vital in managing post-operative concerns. A good healthcare provider will take the time to listen to your worries, explain potential causes of your symptoms, and discuss appropriate diagnostic steps. If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion or ask for further clarification.

In summary, while some discomfort and swelling after an appendectomy can be normal, persistent symptoms warrant further investigation. Adhesions are a possibility, and imaging studies can help clarify the situation. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider to ensure that your recovery is on track and that any concerns are addressed promptly.

Similar Q&A

Is Abdominal Discomfort After Appendectomy a Sign of Adhesions?

Hello, doctors on the forum: In mid-September of this year, I went to the emergency room due to acute appendicitis. After examination, the doctor informed me that it was appendicitis (blood tests/CT scans, etc.) and that I could either receive antibiotics or undergo surgery. The ...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Undergoing surgical treatment for acute appendicitis is the correct decision. If there is a delay and it becomes severe enough for the appendix to rupture and cause peritonitis, the surgery may be more extensive, and the recovery period will be longer. Having surgery in mi...

Post-Appendectomy Concerns: Pain, Adhesions, and Vision Issues Explained

Hello, Doctor. I underwent laparoscopic appendectomy on August 1 due to appendicitis. According to the doctor, the appendix appeared to be non-inflamed (the pathology report indicated inflammation), but there was some abdominal fluid. It has been a week post-surgery, but I still ...

Dr. He Zhenming reply Surgery
The case report indicates that inflammation is present, and it is normal to experience pain in the right lower abdomen after appendectomy. The adhesions post-surgery are relatively mild, and laparoscopic appendectomy is covered by health insurance. Dr. He Zhenming.

Post-Appendectomy Abdominal Swelling and Pain: What to Expect

I apologize, but I would like to inquire about experiencing abdominal distension and pain (not at the incision site) after surgery. Is this a common postoperative phenomenon, or could it indicate another issue? Thank you.

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Ms. Chen, Hello. It is possible that the abdominal pain you are experiencing post-surgery is due to adhesions. You also mentioned that your abdomen is swollen. We recommend that you consult with your surgeon for further evaluation to determine if there are any other issues...

Understanding Post-Apendectomy Adhesions: Symptoms and Management

Hello, I previously asked about the issue of dull pain in the lower right abdomen four months after surgery for a perforated appendicitis with localized peritonitis. Thank you for your patient response. I would like to ask if symptoms such as adhesive intestinal colic and bloatin...

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery
Abdominal infections inevitably lead to varying degrees of intestinal adhesions, a fact well understood by surgeons who perform surgeries. Gastroenterologists may have their own perspectives on this issue. Abdominal pain can manifest as a symptom of many diseases, including adhes...