The appendix is a small, tube-shaped pouch attached to your large intestine. It’s located in the lower right side of your abdomen. The exact purpose of the appendix isn’t known. However, it’s believed that it may help us recover from diarrhea, inflammation, and infections of the small and large intestines.

When the appendix becomes inflamed and swollen, bacteria can quickly multiply inside the organ and leading to a serious infection. This infection can cause pain around the belly button that spreads to the lower right section of the abdomen. Walking or coughing can make the pain worse.

Appendectomy is the standard treatment for appendicitis. It’s crucial to remove the appendix right away, before the appendix can rupture. Once an appendectomy is performed, most people recover quickly and without complications.

There are two types of appendectomy: open and laparoscopic. The type of surgery your doctor chooses depends on several factors, including the severity of your appendicitis and your medical history. There are two types of Appendectomy operations, described as follows:

Laparoscopic Appendectomy

During a laparoscopic appendectomy, a surgeon accesses the appendix through a few small incisions in your abdomen. A small, narrow tube called a cannula will then be inserted. The cannula is used to inflate your abdomen with carbon dioxide gas. This gas allows the surgeon to see your appendix more clearly.

Once the abdomen is inflated, an instrument called a laparoscope will be inserted through the incision. The laparoscope allows your surgeon to see inside your abdomen and guide the instruments. When the appendix is found, it will be tied off with stitches and removed. The small incisions are then cleaned, closed, and dressed.

Open Appendectomy

During an open appendectomy, a surgeon makes one incision in the lower right side of your abdomen. Your appendix is removed and the wound is closed with stitches. This procedure allows your surgeon to clean the abdominal cavity if your appendix has burst.

Your doctor may choose an open appendectomy if your appendix has ruptured and the infection has spread to other organs.