Last Updated on Jan 10, 2010
Anatomy and Physiology
- The appendix is a narrow, muscular tube. One end is attached to the first part of the large intestine, while the other end is closed. The position of the appendix in the body can vary from person to person.
- An average adult appendix is about 4 inches (10cm) long. However, it can vary in length from as less as an inch to 8 inches. Its diameter is usually about about 6 to 7 mm.
- The function of the appendix is unknown.
- Foods that have not been digested tends to move into the appendix and are forced out again by the contractions of appendix. In herbivorous animals like cow and goat, the appendix can function. In man, this has become what is called as a vestigial organ (an organ that is no more required)..
If a patient is having a high grade fever at the same time wheezes due to history of asthma but oxygen saturation is 99% on 2L/min via nasal prong. Which should be dealt first? my ineffective breathing pattern or fever"? Whaat can fever do with regards to my acute appendicitis?