Surgical removal of the appendix is called Appendectomy. It is a common surgery to treat appendicitis, an inflammatory condition of the appendix.The appendix is a small, tube-shaped pouch attached to your large intestine. It is located in the lower right side of the abdomen, even after the removal of the appendix he body can still function properly. 

Some common symptoms of appendicitis are nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Seek immediate medical treatment on presentment of these symptoms as when the condition goes untreated, the appendix can burst (perforated appendix) and release bacteria and other harmful substances into the abdominal cavity. This situation can be life-threatening. Appendectomy is the best treatment for appendicitis most people recover quickly and without complications.

Why Appendectomy is performed?

When the appendix becomes inflamed and swollen, bacteria multiply inside the organ and lead to the formation of pus which causes pain around the belly button that spreads to the lower right section of the abdomen. Walking or coughing can make the pain worse.

Appendectomy is done to remove the appendix when an infection has made it inflamed and swollen. The infection may occur when the opening of the appendix becomes clogged with bacteria and stool. If the appendix ruptures, it may lead to a serious life threatening condition called peritonitis. 

What Are the Risks of an Appendectomy?

An appendectomy is a simple and common procedure. However, there are some risks associated with the surgery, that include risk of infection, bleeding, blockage in the bowels and /or injury to other organs.  

It is important to note that the risks of an appendectomy are much less severe than the risks associated with untreated appendicitis. An appendectomy needs to be done immediately to prevent abscesses and peritonitis.

How Appendectomy is performed?

There are two types of appendectomy: open and laparoscopic. The type of surgery depends on several factors, including the severity of the condition and patient’s medical history.

Open Appendectomy: During an open appendectomy, a surgeon makes one incision in the lower right side of the abdomen. The appendix is removed and the wound is closed with stitches. Open appendectomy is done in case of ruptured appendix when the infection has spread to other organs. It is also the preferred option for people who have had abdominal surgery in the past.

Laparoscopic Appendectomy: During a laparoscopic appendectomy, a small, narrow tube called a cannula is inserted through a small incision, cannula is used to inflate the abdomen with carbon dioxide gas. This gas allows the surgeon to see the appendix more clearly.

After the abdomen is inflated, a laparoscope is inserted through the incision. The camera displays the images on a screen, allowing the surgeon to see inside the abdomen and guide the instruments. The appendix is tied off with stitches and removed. The small incisions are then cleaned, closed, and dressed. Laparoscopic surgery is usually the best option for older adults and people who are overweight. It has fewer risks than an open appendectomy procedure, and generally has a shorter recovery time.

After the Appendectomy?

Patient is kept under observation for a few hours before being discharged from the hospital. The timing of your discharge  will depend on overall physical condition, type of appendectomy performed and body’s response to surgery. In some case patient may have to stay in the hospital for 2-3 days.  

The patient may feel moderate pain in the areas where incisions were made for few days. The Doctor may prescribe antibiotics and pain medication to manage pain and risk of infection.