What are Appendicitis and Appendectomy?

Simply put appendicitis is the disease and appendectomy the treatment.

On the lower right side of your abdomen is a finger-like projection from the large intestine. As long as it is clear and there is nothing accumulating in it, you will be fine. Sometimes it can become blocked. As bacteria inside multiply rapidly the appendix gets infected.

Infection and inflammation of the appendix is called appendicitis. This is a very painful and dangerous condition which can led to potentially life-threatening complications. As infection increases, the appendix fills with pus and swells causing severe pain. If untreated the appendix will rupture and empty the infectious content into the abdominal cavity, which could lead to severe infection.

Symptoms of appendicitis

• Sudden pain in the lower right side of the abdomen
• The pain usually begins around the navel and shifts to the lower right of the abdomen
• Pain will worsen when you cough, walk, or make may jarring movement
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Bloating or flatulence
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Fever that gets worse

Appendectomy surgery is the only treatment option and usually it will be an emergency procedure done before a rupture complicates the condition.

In open surgery a long incision is made in the abdomen, the appendix is removed and wound closed and sutured. This is a major surgery and will require considerable downtime and recuperation for complete recovery.

Laparoscopic appendectomy is a minimally invasive procedure. A few small incisions are all that are made in the abdomen. Special instruments are used to remove the appendix through these holes. As there is no big incision, there is very little blood loss and tissue damage. You will require very little hospitalization and your recovery and return to normal life will be quicker.

Follow all the instructions given by your surgeon for a full recovery. You will have to avoid exerting yourself till your surgeon decides you are recovered enough. Rest when your body tells you to because sufficient rest is required to repair your body. Support your abdomen when you cough, sneeze etc.

The follow up appointments with your surgeon are important to monitor your recovery. The most important things to remember are:

• Be aware of the symptoms of appendicitis
• Seek medical help immediately
• Follow the instructions for post-surgery care

For all gastrointestinal problems consult our specialists with confidence.