Acute appendicitis complicating pregnancy

Acute appendicitis occurs as a complication of pregnancy in about 0.1 per cent of cases. Diagnosis may be somewhat more difficult during the second and third trimesters dur to the displacement of viscera and the increased incidence of pyelitis and constipation. It is based on the same symptoms and signs as in nonpregnant patients. The treatment is immediate operation regardless of the stage of pregnancy. A McBurney incision is preferred and it is placed somewhat higher than usual in the later stages of pregnancy. When operation is done promptly there is little danger to either mother or fetus.