Expert appendicitis care for babies, children and teenagers from Dr. Pritesh Maheshwari, AIIMS-trained pediatric surgeon. Quick diagnosis, keyhole (laparoscopic) appendix removal and a gentle recovery plan, close to home in Delhi.
The appendix is a small, finger-shaped pouch attached to the large intestine on the lower right side of the tummy. Appendicitis happens when it gets blocked, often by a small piece of hard stool or swollen tissue after an infection. Bacteria then build up, and the appendix becomes swollen, painful and filled with pus.
If it is not treated in time, the appendix can burst (perforate) and spread infection through the abdomen. Younger children face a higher risk of this because they cannot always explain their pain.
Every child is different, but watch for these common signs.
Signs can be less clear. Look for irritability, a swollen tummy, lying still with knees pulled up, or crying when picked up.
Go to the nearest emergency or call us right away if your child has severe or constant tummy pain, repeated vomiting, high fever, a hard or swollen tummy, or pain that suddenly eases and then returns worse. These can be signs of a burst appendix.
Call +91 76699 55995Appendicitis can look like a stomach bug, constipation, a urine infection or gas, so a careful diagnosis matters. Dr. Pritesh confirms it with:
A gentle check of where the tummy is tender
To look for signs of infection
To rule out a urine infection
The preferred first scan for children because it uses no radiation
Only when the ultrasound is unclear
We explain every result in plain language and tell you clearly whether your child needs surgery, closer observation or a different treatment.
The right treatment depends on how advanced the appendicitis is. Dr. Pritesh offers:
This is the standard treatment for most children. The appendix is removed through two or three tiny cuts, one hidden inside the belly button, using a camera and fine instruments. Children usually have less pain, smaller scars and go home sooner.
In a small number of cases, the appendix is removed through one small cut on the lower right side. This may be chosen for very young babies or special situations.
If the appendix has burst, it is removed and the abdomen is thoroughly washed out to clear the infection, usually by keyhole surgery. Your child then receives antibiotics through a drip until the infection settles.
Sometimes the body walls off the infection into a lump or a pocket of pus. The infection is first treated with antibiotics and, if needed, drainage. The appendix is then removed safely in a planned operation 6 to 8 weeks later.
For some children with early, uncomplicated appendicitis, antibiotics alone may be an option. Dr. Pritesh will discuss honestly whether your child is suitable and the chance of the appendicitis returning.
Most appendix operations for children are done through pediatric laparoscopic surgery.
Do not wait for the pain to get worse. Speak to a pediatric surgeon today for a quick, clear assessment.
An examination, the right tests and a clear treatment plan.
We tell you when to stop food and drinks and answer all your questions.
Performed under general anesthesia by a pediatric team. Keyhole surgery usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.
Most children sip fluids within a few hours, start light food soon after and walk the same or next day.
Most children with uncomplicated appendicitis go home in 1 to 2 days. After a burst appendix, the stay is usually 4 to 7 days.
A check-up visit to review the wounds and make sure recovery is on track.
Call us if your child has a fever, worsening tummy pain, repeated vomiting, or redness or discharge from a wound.
+91 76699 55995Senior Consultant Pediatric Surgeon and Pediatric Urologist with over a decade of surgical experience caring for newborns, children and teenagers. He completed his MCh in Pediatric Surgery at AIIMS New Delhi as batch topper, after earning a gold medal in his MS in General Surgery.
Consultations take place at Maheshwari Multispeciality Clinic, Delhi 110051. Surgery is performed at leading partner hospitals in Delhi and NCR.
Get an expert opinion for your child from an AIIMS-trained pediatric surgeon, close to home in Delhi.
Get an expert opinion for your child from an AIIMS-trained pediatric surgeon, close to home in Delhi.
