Appendectomy · Emergency Care

Appendectomy in Puerto Vallarta

Appendicitis is a real surgical emergency — the pain doesn’t wait, and care shouldn’t either. If you suspect appendicitis, reach out immediately for an urgent evaluation.

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What are the symptoms of appendicitis?

Appendicitis usually progresses quickly, within hours. Recognizing the symptoms in time is key to avoiding complications:

Pain that starts around the belly button and moves to the lower right abdomen
Pain that worsens with coughing, walking, or sudden movement
Nausea or vomiting
Low-grade fever that may increase over time
Loss of appetite
Abdomen tender to the touch, especially on the right side

When is emergency surgery needed?

Acute appendicitis almost always requires surgery as soon as possible — the longer it takes, the greater the risk that the appendix will rupture, which can cause a serious abdominal infection (peritonitis). If you suspect appendicitis, don’t wait: reach out immediately for an urgent evaluation. Diagnosis is confirmed with a physical exam, lab tests, and in most cases, ultrasound or CT scan.

What is the procedure like?

Laparoscopic appendectomy is the current standard for most cases — performed through small incisions, with less pain and a faster recovery than traditional open surgery.

Physical exam and urgent studies to confirm the diagnosis as quickly as possible.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia as soon as surgery is confirmed to be needed.
The inflamed appendix is removed through small abdominal incisions.
Immediate recovery is monitored; most patients are discharged within 24-48 hours if there are no complications.

This is a real emergency: If you suspect appendicitis, don’t wait for the pain to improve on its own. Reach out immediately — time is critical to avoiding complications.

What is recovery like?

In uncomplicated cases, recovery from a laparoscopic appendectomy is fast: most patients resume normal activities in 1 to 3 weeks. If the appendix ruptured before surgery, recovery may take longer and require additional antibiotics.

Frequently asked questions

How urgent is it really?

Very urgent. Untreated appendicitis can rupture within 24-72 hours, causing a serious abdominal infection. If you suspect it, seek care immediately.

Is it always done laparoscopically?

In most cases, yes. In advanced or complicated cases, open surgery may be required — this is determined at the time based on each case.

Can I wait until the next day if the pain is mild?

It is not recommended. Even mild pain can progress quickly with appendicitis. An immediate evaluation to confirm or rule out the diagnosis is preferable.

Do you handle emergencies outside consultation hours?

Yes, appendicitis is an emergency and is treated as such — reach out via WhatsApp or phone at any time.

Do you accept medical insurance for emergency surgery?

Yes, major medical insurance is accepted for emergency procedures in addition to self-pay.

Do you suspect appendicitis?

Don’t wait — reach out immediately for an urgent evaluation.

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