Are clips supposed to be left after a laparoscopic appendectomy?

[ecromp]

I had a  laparoscopic appendectomy to remove my appendix 4 years ago. Recently when i went for an abdominal x-ray for an unrelated reason i was asked what abdominal surgery I had previously had as there was a clip left inside. I was just wondering if that was supposed to be there? If i should have been told that they had left it there at the time if it was? And also if it is really necessary for just a laparoscopic appendectomy? Thanks

[dkkloud]

I don't have an answer...I had an appendectomy in 04' and the clips are now calcified in the cecum. Hurts like PMS, but there hasn't been PMS in years. I think the clips are not as innocent as they are portrayed.

[hyu979]

Clips are left in the abdomen but are rarely reported to cause abdominal pain. For laparoscopic cholecystectomy they are unlikely to cause abdominal pain as they are not in direct contact with peritoneaum but when used for appendectomy they can get in direct contact with peritoneum which would lead to peritoneal irritation and pain.

[CalGal]

Clips are routinely left in in many surgeries including gallbladder and other surgeries. Docs aren't required to say anything about it. It's probably assumed if you want to know, you'll ask. The clips are the most time-efficient and direct way of completly 'clamping' something off so that no leaks will occur after the surgery site is closed and the patient can begin recovering.