What are the common acute abdominal conditions that require surgical treatment?

Nov 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Common acute abdominal conditions requiring surgical treatment generally include acute appendicitis, perforated peptic ulcer of the stomach or duodenum, intestinal obstruction, ruptured ectopic pregnancy, and acute cholecystitis. Typical presentation of acute appendicitis is migratory right lower quadrant abdominal pain, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and fever. If the appendix becomes purulent or perforates, it may lead to diffuse peritonitis, necessitating emergency appendectomy. Postoperatively, antibiotics are administered to prevent infection.

Common acute abdominal conditions requiring surgical treatment generally include acute appendicitis, perforated peptic ulcer of the stomach or duodenum, intestinal obstruction, ruptured ectopic pregnancy, and acute cholecystitis. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Acute Appendicitis: The classic presentation is migratory right lower quadrant abdominal pain, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and fever. If the appendix becomes purulent or perforates, it may lead to diffuse peritonitis, necessitating emergency appendectomy. Postoperative antibiotic therapy is used to prevent infection.

2. Perforated Gastric or Duodenal Ulcer: Patients with a history of chronic ulcers may suddenly experience severe, knife-like upper abdominal pain that rapidly spreads throughout the abdomen, with abdominal muscles becoming rigid ("board-like abdomen"). Free gas under the diaphragm can be seen on X-ray. Immediate surgical repair of the perforation is required, followed by postoperative use of acid-suppressing and gastric-protective medications.

3. Intestinal Obstruction: Symptoms include abdominal pain, distension, and cessation of flatus and bowel movements. Strangulated intestinal obstruction may present with bloody stools and shock. Mechanical intestinal obstruction requires surgery to relieve the obstructive cause. Postoperatively, antibiotics are administered to prevent infection, along with medications to regulate intestinal function.

4. Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy: In women of childbearing age, sudden tearing pain in the lower abdomen following missed menstruation, accompanied by vaginal bleeding and signs of shock, suggests this condition. Pelvic fluid can be detected via ultrasound, and non-clotted blood can be aspirated during posterior cul-de-sac puncture. Emergency surgery is required to control bleeding, followed by correction of anemia postoperatively.

5. Acute Cholecystitis: Characterized by right upper quadrant abdominal pain, fever, and jaundice. If the gallbladder becomes purulent, perforates, or is associated with common bile duct stones, cholecystectomy or cholecystostomy is indicated. After surgery, a low-fat diet is recommended, and regular follow-up examinations are necessary.

Upon experiencing symptoms related to the above-mentioned acute abdominal conditions, patients should immediately fast (no food or water) and seek medical attention promptly to avoid delays in treatment.

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