What to do about adhesions after appendectomy

Nov 06, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Wang Lei

Introduction

In general, the treatment methods for postoperative adhesions following appendectomy mainly include conservative management, medication, gastrointestinal decompression, traditional Chinese medicine, and surgical intervention. Additionally, during treatment, patients should comply with medical advice, cooperate with examinations and nursing care, and regularly monitor changes in abdominal symptoms. Seek immediate medical attention if abnormal conditions such as fever, worsening abdominal pain, or cessation of bowel movements and gas passage occur.

In general, the treatment methods for postoperative adhesions following appendicitis surgery mainly include conservative management, medication, gastrointestinal decompression, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and surgical intervention. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Conservative Management

Patients should remain in bed and adopt a semi-recumbent position to reduce abdominal tension and alleviate pain. Dietary adjustments are recommended: starting with liquid foods in the early stage, gradually transitioning to semi-liquid and easily digestible solid foods, while avoiding spicy, greasy, raw, or cold foods that may irritate the intestines. Additionally, keeping the abdomen warm is important to prevent chills from exacerbating intestinal spasms and worsening discomfort caused by adhesions.

2. Medication

Patients may take anti-infective medications such as ceftriaxone sodium for injection and metronidazole injection under medical guidance to prevent or control inflammatory responses at the site of adhesion. For symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating, pinaverium bromide tablets can be used to relieve smooth muscle spasms in the intestine and improve discomfort. Lactulose oral solution may also be administered to regulate bowel function, promote defecation, and reduce the risk of intestinal obstruction.

3. Gastrointestinal Decompression

A nasogastric tube is inserted through the nose into the stomach to continuously remove gas and fluid from the gastrointestinal tract, thereby reducing intra-intestinal pressure, relieving bloating, and alleviating compression of the intestines due to adhesions. This method allows the intestines to rest fully, reduces the burden of peristalsis, and creates favorable conditions for recovery at the adhesion site. It is suitable for patients with mild intestinal obstruction caused by adhesions.

4. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

According to TCM theory, postoperative adhesions are associated with stagnation of qi and blood and blocked meridians. Treatment focuses on promoting blood circulation to remove stasis and regulating qi to restore bowel function. Oral administration of herbal formulas such as Xue Fu Zhu Yu Wan (Blood House Stasis-Dispelling Pills) and Mu Xiang Shun Qi Wan (Aucklandia Root Smooth-Qi Pills) can help improve circulation of qi and blood and relieve abdominal pain and distension caused by adhesions. Additionally, acupuncture and moxibustion applied to the abdomen can regulate intestinal function and enhance local blood circulation, thus helping to alleviate adhesion-related symptoms.

5. Surgical Treatment

For patients with severe adhesions causing complete intestinal obstruction or recurrent episodes of intense abdominal pain, surgical intervention is necessary. Common procedures include adhesiolysis and bowel resection. These surgeries aim to separate adhered intestinal tissues, relieve intestinal obstruction, restore normal bowel patency, and prevent further deterioration of the condition.

In addition, during treatment, patients should cooperate with medical examinations and nursing care as directed. Abdominal symptoms should be monitored regularly. If abnormal conditions such as fever, worsening abdominal pain, or cessation of bowel movements and flatus occur, they should promptly inform their doctor so that the treatment plan can be adjusted accordingly. Early ambulation after surgery is also an effective measure to prevent worsening of adhesions.

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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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Does getting anesthesia hurt during appendicitis surgery?

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.

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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.

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Will an appendectomy leave a scar?

In general, whether appendicitis surgery leaves a scar depends on various factors, including the surgical method, individual physical constitution, and postoperative care. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. After surgery, keep the incision clean and dry, avoid getting it wet or scratching it, and prevent infection. Follow the doctor's instructions to change dressings regularly, and include adequate protein and vitamins in your diet.