Learn about appendicitis and how to care for your child at home after appendectomy surgery.
Appendicitis and appendectomy
Appendectomy is an operation to remove the appendix. Your child may need an appendectomy if they have an infection of the appendix (appendicitis). Learn more about appendicitis and what to expect before, during and after an appendectomy.
The main concern after an appendectomy is an abscess (infection). One sign of infection is a fever of 38.5°C (101°F) or higher. Learn how to take your child's temperature accurately to monitor for fevers and how to manage fevers with acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
It is normal for your child to experience some pain and discomfort after surgery, but there are ways to manage it. Find out what you can do to help make your child more comfortable after an appendectomy.
After their appendectomy, your child's bowel movements may be less frequent than usual, painful or hard to pass. Learn more about constipation and how to help your child.