What happens after your appendix bursts? how long is the recovery?

Longer recovery: When the appendix burst (perforation) an abscess is formed (pocket of pus). The surgery is more involved and may take more time to recognized the appendix during surgery. The abscess will need to be removed, and usually a drain is placed. The patient may stay in the hospital 3-7 days without any complications. Recovery at home for open surgery is 4-6 weeks. For laparoscopy 7-10 days.

Antibiotics/drainage: If not diagnosed early enough, can die from peritonitis produced by perforation. If detected early and antibiotic therapy employed prognosis is usually good.Recovery time depends on severity of peritonitis and abscess formation in abdomen.Doctors typically try to treat the abscess or peritonitis before appendectomy. Treatments usually involve draining any pus from abdomen and antibiotics 6-8 wks