Final answer:
If a patient has symptoms of appendicitis for more than five days, a CT scan can assess the condition's severity. Antibiotics, hospitalization, and possibly a laparoscopic appendectomy will be needed depending on whether an abscess or perforation has developed.
Step-by-step explanation:
Managing appendicitis in patients who've experienced symptoms for more than five days requires careful evaluation. If the inflammation has persisted for this length of time without an appendix rupture, the course of action may involve antibiotics and close supervision. However, if there's suspicion of a complication such as an abscess or perforation, surgical intervention may be necessary. A computed tomography (CT) scan is commonly used to assess the severity and extent of the appendicitis.
Treatment may also require hospitalization, especially in cases where the patient presents with serious symptoms like severe abdominal pain, fever, or signs of systemic infection. For uncomplicated appendicitis, a laparoscopic appendectomy, which is a minimally invasive surgery to remove the appendix, will likely be the recommended approach.
In all cases, it is imperative that appendicitis be managed promptly to prevent a life-threatening condition. Patients with delayed treatment are at higher risk for complications and require a tailored management strategy based on their clinical presentation and diagnostic findings.