Does getting anesthesia hurt during appendicitis surgery?

Nov 05, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Wang Lei

Introduction

In general, whether anesthesia for appendectomy causes pain depends on the type of anesthesia used. Local anesthesia may cause mild discomfort, while general anesthesia usually involves no significant pain. After surgery, it is important to keep the incision clean and dry to prevent infection. Initially, patients should eat light and easily digestible foods, gradually returning to a normal diet. Appropriate physical activity can be resumed according to individual recovery progress.

In general, whether anesthesia for appendicitis surgery causes pain depends on the type of anesthesia used. Local anesthesia may cause slight discomfort, while general anesthesia typically involves no significant pain. The details are as follows:

If local anesthesia is used, the doctor will inject anesthetic medication into the surgical area. There may be a brief sensation of needle prick and pressure during injection—similar to a routine intramuscular injection. The discomfort is mild and short-lived. Once the anesthesia takes effect, the surgical area becomes numb, and no pain will be felt during the operation.

If general anesthesia is chosen, patients usually receive anesthetic drugs through intravenous injection or inhalation. This process is generally painless. Most individuals quickly fall asleep under the medication's effects and remain unaware of the anesthesia administration and surgical procedure. After surgery, upon waking, some may experience mild discomfort, but this is not due to pain during anesthesia.

After surgery, it is important to keep the incision clean and dry to prevent infection. Initially, opt for light and easily digestible foods, gradually returning to a normal diet. Additionally, engage in appropriate physical activity according to your recovery progress to help restore intestinal function and promote faster overall recovery.

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Where is the incision site for minimally invasive appendectomy?

The incisions for minimally invasive appendectomy are typically located in the abdomen, usually three in number—situated at the umbilicus and on both sides of the lower abdomen or near the midline of the lower abdomen. Each incision is small, generally 0.5–1 cm in length, and their exact positions may be slightly adjusted depending on the patient's condition. If redness, swelling, fluid discharge, or persistent pain occurs at the incision site after surgery, prompt medical attention is recommended.

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What are the complications of appendectomy surgery?

In general, as a common treatment for appendicitis, appendectomy may lead to complications including wound infection, intra-abdominal hemorrhage, intra-abdominal abscess, intestinal adhesions, and residual appendicitis. After surgery, patients should follow medical advice for wound care, engage in early appropriate activity to reduce the risk of intestinal adhesions, and closely monitor body temperature, abdominal pain, and bowel movements.

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What are the complications after appendectomy?

In general, although appendectomy is a common surgical procedure, it may still lead to certain postoperative complications, including incision infection or pain, intestinal adhesions, stump appendicitis, pelvic abscess, and gastrointestinal dysfunction. After surgery, patients should pay attention to wound care, get out of bed and move as early as possible to reduce the risk of intestinal adhesions, and maintain a light diet, avoiding overeating and binge eating.

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Can you eat seafood after appendicitis surgery?

In general, whether seafood can be consumed after appendectomy depends on the individual patient's postoperative recovery. When eating seafood, start with a small amount and monitor for any adverse reactions such as rashes or diarrhea. Postoperative diet should follow the principle of gradual progression—beginning with liquid or semi-liquid foods and slowly transitioning to regular meals. Avoid consuming spoiled or un新鲜 seafood.