Laparoscopic Appendicectomy

The appendix is a finger like pouch attached to the large intestine and located in the lower right area of the abdomen. Scientists are not sure what the appendix does, if anything, but removing it does not appear to affect a person’s health.

Appendicitis is a painful swelling and infection of the appendix. People who think they have appendicitis should see a doctor or go to the emergency room right away. Swift diagnosis and treatment reduce the chances the appendix will burst, improving recovery time and decreasing the risk of complications.

Surgery to remove the appendix is called appendicectomy. In most cases this can be performed via a keyhole approach. Conversion to an open procedure may be required if your appendix has burst or severe inflammation is present. Your doctor may recommend an open appendectomy, pre-operatively, if your appendix has already burst or if you have had a previous open abdominal surgery.

Appendicectomies are one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures and long-term complications are rare. Some of the potential risks include wound infection, bleeding under the skin (haematoma), scarring, and hernia