Appendectomy

Alternative Names: Appendix removal

An appendectomy is surgery to remove the appendix.

See also: Appendicitis

Description of Procedure

The appendix is a small, finger-shaped organ that comes out from the first part of the large intestine. It is removed when it becomes swollen (inflamed) or infected. An appendix that has a hole in it (perforated) can leak and infect the entire abdomen area, which can be life threatening.

See also: Peritonitis

An appendectomy is done using either:

• Spinal anesthesia. Medicine is put into your back to make you numb below your waist. You will also get medicine to make you sleepy.
• General anesthesia. You will be asleep and not feel any pain during the surgery.

The surgeon makes a small cut in the lower right side of your belly area and removes the appendix.

The appendix can also be removed using small surgical cuts and a camera. This is called a laparoscopic appendectomy.

If the appendix broke open or a pocket of infection (abscess) formed, your abdomen will be washed out during surgery. A small tube may be left in the belly area to help drain out fluids or pus.

Risks of Appendectomy

Risks from any anesthesia include the following:

• Reactions to medications
• Problems breathing

Risks from any surgery include the following:

• Bleeding
• Infection

Other risks with an appendectomy after a ruptured appendix include the following:

• Buildup of pus, which may need draining and antibiotics
• Longer hospital stays
• Side effects from medications

Anatomical landmarks, front view	Digestive system	Appendectomy - series

Review Date: 5/6/2011
Reviewed By: Shabir Bhimji, MD, PhD, Specializing in General Surgery, Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Midland, TX. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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