What is the appendix?
Attached to the end of the large intestine in the lower right corner of the abdomen, is a small finger like pouch called the appendix. The purpose of the appendix is not really clear and it is generally regarded as a vestigial organ that may have had a purpose for our ancestors but is no longer necessary. If surgical removal of the appendix is required, immune and gastrointestinal function is not impaired.
The appendix secretes a small amount of mucus which empties into the large intestine. Blockage within the appendix by food or stool obstructs the mucus flow and causes the swelling and infection known as appendicitis.
If it is not removed, the appendix will burst and infection may spread throughout the abdomen creating a life threatening condition called peritonitis.
Appendicitis is most commonly seen in adolescents up to young adults but can be seen at any age.
What is a laparoscopic appendectomy?
Surgical removal of the appendix is one of the most common emergency surgeries performed in the United States. The surgery is called an appendectomy and is required by one out of every 2000 people.
Traditionally the appendix has always been removed through a 2-5 inch incision in the right lower part of the abdomen. When preformed by the surgeons at Surgical Consultants of Hollywood, the procedure is almost always done laparoscopically. This minimally invasive surgery allows our surgeons to remove the appendix using three very small incisions in the abdomen. This will typically help with a faster recovery, less pain and a faster return home and to normal activities.
The procedure takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour depending on the degree of infection involved. The hospital stay can range from 1 day to a week, again depending on how advanced the infection is.
When done laparoscopically, return to normal activities and to work or school depends on the individual. There are no true restrictions, and as the individual starts to feel better, they are able to return to all normal activities.