Management of acute appendicitis in pregnancy

The diagnosis and treatment of acute appendicitis during pregnancy present a significant challenge, often necessitating the involvement of a multidisciplinary team of specialists. In most pregnant women, acute appendicitis typically manifests as pain in the lower right quadrant, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and fever. Ultrasound is the primary diagnostic tool for acute appendicitis in pregnancy; however, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is preferred when available to reduce the risk of negative appendectomies. An individualized approach is essential, and depending on the urgency of the case, immediate surgical intervention may be required to minimize intraoperative and postoperative complications. This article aims to provide an overview of the current best practices and state-of-the-art approaches for the diagnosis and management of acute appendicitis during pregnancy