QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
This patient has developed an appendiceal mass; a contained area of small bowel and omentum which has become inflamed and encases the appendix. He should undergo an appendectomy, but it is unsafe to attempt this until the inflammation of the appendix has resolved. He should receive antibiotics and then have an appendectomy in 6-8 weeks' time.
10035409
c
Proceed to appendectomy
QuestionChoice
This is inappropriate; the patient requires definitive management.
10035411
e
Observation in hospital
QuestionChoice
This patient has developed an appendiceal mass; a contained area of small bowel and omentum which has become inflamed and encases the appendix. He should undergo an appendectomy, but it is unsafe to attempt this until the inflammation of the appendix has resolved. He should receive antibiotics and then have an appendectomy in 6-8 weeks' time.
10035407
a
Interval appendectomy in 6-8 weeks' time
QuestionChoice
Antibiotics will be required, however the patient will still likely require an appendectomy.
10035408
b
A 2-week course of antibiotics
QuestionChoice
If an associated abscess was present, drainage may have been an option to control the source of infection. In this case, there is no drainable collection. The patient should receive antibiotics until the inflammation settles, and then can proceed to an appendectomy.
10035410
d
Ultrasound-guided drainage
Concept
Chapter
2693
4486
Appendicitis
Topic
135
General surgery
19485
In cases of appendiceal mass, initial management includes antibiotics followed by interval appendectomy after inflammation resolves, typically within 6-8 weeks.
A 7-year-old boy is admitted to hospital with persistent fevers. His parents report him experiencing an episode of severe right iliac fossa pain lasting four days that ended a week ago.

He is started on antibiotics and an ultrasound scan is carried out, which shows an appendix mass but no associated abscess.

What is the most appropriate course of management?
a