Wound infections do occur and are more common if the appendicitis was severe, far advanced, or ruptured. An abscess may form in the abdomen as a complication of appendicitis. Occasionally, an appendix will rupture prior to its removal, spilling its contents into the abdominal cavity. Peritonitis or a generalized infection in the abdomen will occur. It is only seen if the appendix has a broad attachment to the cecum and the appendicitis is far advanced causing destruction of the cecum itself.
Most patients feel better immediately after an operation for appendicitis.
Many patients are discharged from the hospital within 24 hours after the appendectomy. Almost all patients are back to their normal activities within three weeks. The mortality rate of appendicitis has dramatically decreased over time. Currently, the mortality rate is estimated at 1-2 per 1,000,000 cases of appendicitis. Death is usually due to peritonitis, intra abdominal abscess or severe infection following rupture.