Laparoscopic Appendectomy

WHAT IS APPENDIX?

The appendix is a long narrow tube about few inches in length that attaches to the first part of the colon which is also known as cecum. It is located in the lower right part of the abdomen. Its function, however, is not identified yet. It is still considered a vestigial (rudimentary) organ.

Why do we need appendectomy?

Appendectomy means removal of appendix. It is done for:

• Acute appendicitis
• Recurrent Appendicitis.
• As interval appendectomy after drainage of appendicular abscess or after appendicular mass.
• Carcinoid tumour of the appendix 2m at tip.
• Mucocele of the appendix.

Acute Appendicitis: It is an inflammatory condition of the appendix.

What are the causes of acute appendicitis?

Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes blocked often by stool or some foreign body or cancer. Appendix may also be blocked by infection.

What are the symptoms of appendicitis?

• Pain in the naval area which becomes sharper and moves to the right side of lower abdomen.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Fever.
• Loss of appetite.
• Inability to pass gas.

WHAT IS A LAPAROSCOPIC APPENDECTOMY?

Appendicitis is one of the most common surgical problems.

In laparoscopic procedure for removal of the appendix, appendectomies, surgeons operate through 3 small incisions which are 5mm in size, while watching an enlarged image on a high definition monitor.

• Less post-operative pain related to size of incision- smaller incisions.
• Less Handling of intestines which results in little or no disturbance of normal function.
• Rapid return to normal activity
• Early return to more strenuous activities: driving, lifting, sport etc.
• Hospital stay reduced from 5 days to 1 day.
• No drains and pipes.
• No dressings or stiches.
• No scars.