What is Appendicitis?

Appendicitis is a condition where the appendix has become infected and inflamed. The appendix is a small tube-shaped structure that extends from your large intestine. Appendicitis can affect anybody at any point in their lives. It mostly occurs when the appendix becomes blocked with a foreign body like food or faeces. Appendicitis is a surgical emergency and almost always requires immediate surgery called appendectomy to remove the affected appendix. Younger people more proven for appendicitis.

What happens during an Appendectomy?

There are two methods used during an appendectomy – open and laparoscopic. During an open appendectomy, the surgeon will make an incision on the lower right side of abdomen. The appendix is removed and the incision is closed using stitches. This procedure allows the surgeon to visualise and clean the area in case the appendix has burst.

In laparoscopic appendectomy, a few small key holes are made on abdomen. This allows the surgeon to insert narrow tubes known as a cannula which passes carbon dioxide gas into the abdomen to inflate it. A laparoscope is then inserted into the abdominal cavity and used to remove the appendix. The incisions are then cleaned and closed using stitches.

Laparoscopic appendectomy is generally preferred over open appendectomy as it has fewer risks and requires a shorter recovery time.

What are the benefits of Appendectomy?

If your appendix is infected, it has to be removed or it will cause severe problems. An infected appendix can rupture causing the infection to spread to throughout abdomen. A ruptured appendix also means that the large intestine has developed a hole that will cause food particles and waste materials to leak into the abdominal cavity.

Appendectomy is often immediately performed upon the diagnosis of appendicitis. This procedure ensures that the appendix is completely removed and there are no further chances of infection.