Discharge Instructions for Open Appendectomy (Appendix Removal)

You have had a procedure known as an open appendectomy to remove your appendix. The appendix is a worm-shaped hollow pouch attached to the beginning of your large intestine. During an open appendectomy one incision (about 2 to 3 inches long) was made in your lower right side. A longer incision may have been used if the appendix ruptured. Here are guidelines to follow at home.

Incision Care

• Wear loose-fitting clothes. This will help you be more comfortable and cause less irritation around your incision.

• Shower as usual.

• Gently wash around your incision with soap and water.

• Don’t bathe or soak in a tub or swim in a pool until your incisions are well healed.

• If your incision was closed with small white strips of tape, leave them in place for 10 days.

Diet

• Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day, unless directed otherwise.

• Take a fiber-based laxative if you are constipated.

• Eat a bland, low-fat diet, such as the following:

  • Mashed potatoes

  • Plain toast or bread, crackers

  • Soup

  • Plain spaghetti

  • Rice

  • Macaroni (plain or with cheese)

  • Cottage cheese

  • Pudding

  • Low-fat yogurt

  • Low-fat milk

  • Canned fruit (except pineapple)

  • Very ripe bananas

Activity

• If you had general anesthesia, don’t operate machinery or power tools, drink alcohol, or make major decisions for at least the first 24 hours.

• Gradually increase activity level to help with your recovery. Start by doing light activities around your home once you feel able to do so.

• Don’t drive until you are no longer taking prescription pain medication.

• Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds until your doctor says it’s OK.

• Limit sports and strenuous activities for 1 or 2 weeks.