Hoang Thi Nieu from Hanoi, Vietnam, sought medical attention at Hong Ngoc General Hospital experiencing pain around and below her navel, loose stools 2 to 3 times a day, fatigue, and reduced appetite.
These symptoms had persisted for an extended period, but she initially attributed them to a common digestive issue and attempted self-treatment. After three months, with no improvement, a 3 kg weight loss, and persistent, worsening abdominal pain, she consulted a specialist.
At Hong Ngoc General Hospital, she underwent ultrasounds, abdominal CT scans, and other necessary clinical tests. The results revealed an abnormally enlarged appendix, measuring 22 mm in diameter, 4 times the normal size, containing a mucous tumor. Doctors diagnosed her with an appendiceal mucocele and recommended surgery.
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The appendix is 4 times its normal size. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital |
The appendix is 4 times its normal size. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital
"Although detected early, the appendiceal mucocele could have ruptured at any time if not removed immediately," explained Dr. Cu Trung Kien, deputy head of the gastrointestinal surgery department at Hong Ngoc General Hospital, and Ms. N's attending physician.
To completely remove the mucocele and ensure a swift, less painful recovery, the surgical team performed a laparoscopic appendectomy and partial cecectomy. After over 40 minutes, the entire mucocele and part of the cecum were successfully removed. The surgical site was clean with no bleeding.
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Dr. Cu Trung Kien and the surgical team performing the laparoscopic mucocele removal. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital |
Dr. Cu Trung Kien and the surgical team performing the laparoscopic mucocele removal. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital
Ms. N recovered well. A day after the procedure, her abdominal pain subsided, she resumed a light diet, and was discharged after 3 days.
"I felt much better as soon as I woke up from surgery. One or two days later, my health returned to normal. I regained my appetite, my stomach no longer hurt or felt uncomfortable, and my spirits lifted," Ms. N shared.
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Ms. N recovering well after her mucocele removal surgery. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital |
Ms. N recovering well after her mucocele removal surgery. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital
According to Dr. Kien, appendiceal mucocele is a rare appendix condition, occurring in about 0.2% to 0.7% of appendectomies. This means that for every 1,000 appendectomy patients, only about 2 to 7 have a mucocele. Relative to the general population, this equates to roughly 0.5% per million people with appendix issues.
Initially, appendiceal mucoceles often present no noticeable symptoms, easily mistaken for common digestive problems. However, without timely diagnosis and treatment, the tumor can rupture, causing dangerous mucus leakage into the abdominal cavity.
Therefore, Dr. Kien recommends that anyone experiencing unusual symptoms like pain around and below the navel, especially persistent right-sided pain or loose stools, seek prompt medical evaluation at a reputable facility for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
The Dan
The gastrointestinal surgery department at Hong Ngoc General Hospital boasts highly skilled surgeons who provide direct consultation and perform procedures. The hospital has state-of-the-art operating rooms equipped with advanced technology imported from Germany, France, and the US. Patients enjoy luxurious inpatient facilities with 24/7 nursing care. The hospital also accepts health insurance and provides insurance guarantees to optimize treatment costs.
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