Most of the times abdominal pain is considered a Surgical condition and the patient is referred to the Surgeon for management but there are several Non-surgical causes. Acute abdomen is defined as a recent or sudden onset abdominal pain (usually within 24 to 72 hours) with frequently associated gastrointestinal symptoms and signs. Acute abdomen is taught classically as a ‘surgical’ topic. A significant number of patients presenting with acute abdominal pain suffer from non-surgical conditions.
Hence, an effective approach to the patient with acute abdomen must take into account the realisation that 3 out of every 4 such patients will be suffering from disorders requiring non-surgical intervention. APPROACH TO DIAGNOSIS The most important attribute of the physician evaluating a patient with acute abdominal pain is the ability to think ‘out of the (abdomen) box’. One must be familiar with…
