Our Summary

This research paper looked at the location of tumors in patients who have had appendix or gallbladder removal surgery and later developed colorectal cancer (CRC). The research found that there is a higher incidence of tumors on the right side of the colon in patients who have had their appendix or gallbladder removed. This is important because tumors on the right side of the colon have a worse prognosis. The study suggests that the routine practice of removing the appendix or gallbladder needs to be re-evaluated because of this increased risk.

FAQs

  1. What is the connection between appendix or gallbladder removal and the development of colorectal cancer?
  2. Why do tumors on the right side of the colon have a worse prognosis?
  3. Does the study suggest that the routine practice of removing the appendix or gallbladder should be changed due to an increased risk of colorectal cancer?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about appendectomy is to closely monitor their colon health, especially on the right side, after the surgery. Regular screenings and check-ups can help detect any potential issues early on and improve the prognosis for colorectal cancer. It’s important to stay proactive about your health and communicate any concerns with your healthcare provider.

Suitable For

In general, patients who are recommended for an appendectomy are those who are experiencing symptoms of appendicitis, such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. These symptoms indicate inflammation of the appendix, which can lead to a rupture if not treated promptly. An appendectomy is typically performed as an emergency surgery to remove the inflamed appendix and prevent complications.

Other types of patients who may be recommended for an appendectomy include those with recurrent episodes of appendicitis, those with a history of appendiceal tumors or cysts, and those with a suspected appendiceal abscess. Additionally, patients who are undergoing surgery for other abdominal conditions, such as ovarian cysts or inflammatory bowel disease, may also have their appendix removed if it is deemed necessary.

Overall, an appendectomy is a common surgical procedure that is recommended for patients with acute appendicitis or other conditions that warrant removal of the appendix. It is important for patients to consult with their healthcare provider to determine if an appendectomy is the appropriate treatment option for their specific medical condition.

Timeline

Before Appendectomy:

  1. Patient experiences abdominal pain, usually starting around the belly button and moving to the lower right side of the abdomen.
  2. Patient may also experience nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and fever.
  3. Patient undergoes physical examination, blood tests, and imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan to diagnose appendicitis.
  4. Appendectomy surgery is scheduled to remove the inflamed appendix.

After Appendectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes laparoscopic or open surgery to remove the appendix.
  2. Recovery time is typically 1-2 weeks, during which the patient may experience pain, swelling, and soreness at the incision site.
  3. Patient is advised to rest, avoid strenuous activities, and follow a specific diet to aid in the healing process.
  4. Patient may experience changes in bowel movements or digestion after surgery.
  5. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon may be scheduled to monitor healing and ensure there are no complications.
  6. Patient is usually able to resume normal activities within a few weeks and has a decreased risk of future appendicitis.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the reason for recommending an appendectomy in my case?
  2. Are there any alternative treatments or options available for my condition?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with an appendectomy?
  4. How long is the recovery period after the surgery and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  5. Will the removal of my appendix increase my risk for developing colorectal cancer in the future?
  6. Are there any specific precautions or lifestyle changes I should take after the surgery to reduce my risk of developing colorectal cancer?
  7. How often should I follow up with you or another healthcare provider after the surgery?
  8. Is there any additional screening or monitoring that should be done to assess my risk for colorectal cancer following the appendectomy?
  9. Are there any signs or symptoms I should watch out for that may indicate a potential issue or complication post-surgery?
  10. Are there any resources or support groups available for individuals who have undergone an appendectomy and may have an increased risk for colorectal cancer?

Reference

Authors: Ábrahám S, Németh T, Benkő R, Matuz M, Ottlakán A, Váczi D, Paszt A, Simonka Z, Lázár G. Journal: World J Surg Oncol. 2020 May 12;18(1):94. doi: 10.1186/s12957-020-01861-4. PMID: 32397997