Medical Question

My soon-to-be 10 year old daughter (April 28th) is in the hospital as I write this.  I can not be there with her because I have a suspended drivers license and no one to take me (1 1/2 hours away) there.  Her mother called this afternoon to let me know she is being tested for a possible case of appendicitis.  Since I'm not exactly a doctor, I asked her if that means she might have to her appendix out and she said yes.  I should know something soon.

My question for you is this.  Am I worrying about nothing or is appendix removal surgery on a 10-year old girl as big a deal as it sounds to me.  It's scaring the **** out of me and I feel like such a loser because I can't be there by her side.  Maybe I'll get a phone call from her mother saying everything is fine, false alarm, etc....  If not, just how serious is appendix surgery.  I appreciate any input.  Thanks in advance.

I am not an expert. All I can share is things I have picked up over the years. If it is her appendix, it is good that she is where she is. It becomes more dangerous if it bursts before they get it out. I have only heard of this happening in extreme cases where people put off going to the MD way too long. Most of the time, the removal is a laproscopic procedure and the recovery is quick.

Of course you are worried. You are a Dad and this is your child. But truly, until you hear differently, I think you have every reason to be optimistic if it is her appendix. They usually don't fool around with it once the diagnosis is made, which is a good thing.

As I read this, I am worried that I am making things worse instead of better. My intent was to try and make it better.

Sending good thoughts!

Debbie

Debbie,

Nothing you can say could possibly make the situation worse.  As a father, I am already scared to death.  I truly appreciate your information and you are right, I believe it's a good thing she is where she is.  The hospital she's at is a very reputable one, so that makes me feel better.  Still waiting to hear from her mother.  I'll keep you updated.  Thanks again.

Andy

Andy , Sorry about your situation. I am not a doc but I must agree with Debbie. She is right on the money. You would not want them to become infected. If they did its not good. At that point they must be taken out due to possible breakage....I will say a prayer for her and I know you are scared. Good luck...

                                                                                                 Julie

Andy.....
    Sorry to hear this! I had my appendix removed at age 16 under emergency cir****tances. It has risks as any other surgery does. My surgery was fine, and I only emerged with several staples in my belly. It is painful when you wake up....sitting, coughing, normal activities may cause her some discomfort, but the meds they give for pain really help. Again, I was 16 not 10.......but it should be fine.
I have a 13 year old daughter who has been suffering since the age of 8 with a funky appendix. Her appendix will enlarge, cause her extreme pain, and then go back down. Apparently, according to her pediatrician this is a VERY rare disorder.....and of course, the insurance company says NO REMOVAL until they stay enlarged! Go figure! So I had the same concerns for 5 years! But I was assured this is a "everyday" procedure & she would be fine.
I dont of this helps, but I hope it does ease your mind a lil bit. Good luck!

My sister had to have hers removed when she was about 5 or 6 will no ill effects.  The appendix is one of those things that we can live without but it is important to get it out before it bursts!  Anytime anyone goes in for surgery it sucks!  We all worry, but hang in there and think good thoughts!!