An appendectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove the appendix. The appendix is located where the small and large intestine meet and its function is not known. The appendix is usually removed as an emergency procedure when the patient has appendicitis, which is the inflammation of the appendix. Appendicitis can occur quite quickly, beginning with a pain the stomach that may fluctuate in its intensity. Other symptoms include nausea, loss of appetite, fever, and diarrhea. It can occur in anyone, however, it is most common among people aged between 10 and 20.

The person will usually require an appendectomy soon after the onset of appendicitis, as there is a risk of the appendix rupturing within 48 to 72 hours after symptoms present. An appendectomy can be performed as laparoscopic or open surgery, however, laparoscopic surgery is preferred as it is minimally invasive and has quicker recovery times. Time requirements Number of days in hospital 1 - 7 days .

Most patients will leave the hospital within 24 hours of surgery, however open surgery will require a longer hospital stay. The doctor will examine the abdomen to diagnose appendicitis. Time requirements Number of days in hospital 1 - 7 days . Most patients will leave the hospital within 24 hours of surgery, however open surgery will require a longer hospital stay. Time requirements Number of days in hospital 1 - 7 days . Most patients will leave the hospital within 24 hours of surgery, however open surgery will require a longer hospital stay. The doctor will examine the abdomen to diagnose appendicitis.,

Before undergoing surgery, the patient will first be examined by the doctor, who will examine the stomach and take the patient's medical history. In some cases the doctor may take a blood and urine sample to run for tests, as well as perform an ultrasound scan or CT (computerized tomography) scan.

Once appendicitis is confirmed, surgery is usually scheduled as soon as possible, as it is best to remove the appendix than take the risk of it rupturing. Patients will usually be required to refrain from eating and drinking in the hours preceding the surgery, in order to prepare for the general anesthetic.,

An appendectomy is performed either laparoscopically or as open surgery. The surgery will begin once the patient has been anesthetized. Laparoscopic surgery is the preferred and most popular method used to perform an appendectomy. The surgeon will begin by making 3 to 4 small incisions in the abdomen, through which a laparoscope, fitted with a light and camera, is inserted. Small surgical instruments are attached to the laparoscope and the surgeon will use the instruments to remove the appendix.

Once removed, the laparoscope is removed and the incisions are closed with sutures. Open surgery is used in cases whereby the appendix has burst or laparoscopic surgery is not a feasible option. The surgeon will begin by making a large incision in the abdomen, through which the surgeon will remove the appendix. Once removed, the incision is closed with sutures. Anesthesia General anesthetic. Procedure duration The Appendectomy takes 1 to 2 hours. The surgery is performed either laparoscopically or as open surgery.,

Post procedure care Patients will need to keep the incision site clean in order to prevent it from becoming infected.

Possible discomfort Patients will experience pain and discomfort after the surgery, which the doctor will likely prescribe pain medication for.

Patients who undergo laparoscopic surgery will have a quicker recovery time than those who have open surgery.,