Pediatric Surgery Experts Discuss Delayed Treatment of Ruptured Appendix

Case Overview

This case involves a 5 year old girl who presented to the ER with fluid in her abdominal cavity as well as a distended stomach in Utah. An ultrasound was performed, however it was noted that it did not visualize the appendix. Because of this, and the young age of the child, the surgeon ruled out appendicitis and considered other, more esoteric, explanations for her symptoms and worsening condition over the next several days. The child’s appendix eventually burst, causing a massive infection and necessitating an extended hospital stay.