Laparoscopic Appendectomy

What is Laparoscopic Appendectomy?

The Laparoscopic Appendectomy is a minimally invasive surgical technique to remove the appendix through few small abdominal incisions.

Why is it done?

Laparoscopic Appendectomy is recommended to remove the appendix, if you have the symptoms of appendicitis. An appendicitis is a medical emergency i.e. your appendix has become swollen and infected. This can lead to bursting of appendix further causing life-threatening infection (peritonitis) in your abdomen.

What happens during the procedure?

The laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgical technique involves making several tiny cuts in the abdomen and inserting a miniature camera and surgical instruments. Generally, three or four incisions are made while viewing an enlarged image of your internal organs on the screen which guide the surgeons as they remove the appendix. The small incisions are then closed.

However, during laparoscopic appendectomy, if your surgeon discovers that you have a ruptured appendix or peritonitis, a switch to an open surgery may be required.

How long will it take?

The surgery will take approximately 1 hour which will further depend upon your condition.

What happens after the procedure?

Post-surgery, you will be encouraged to walk. Your doctor will prescribe pain management medication and discharge will be planned depending upon your recovery. Your doctor will schedule your follow-up visit. You need to get plenty of sleep and eat small but frequent meals.

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FAQs

What is Appendicitis?

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix. It is a medical emergency which causes abdominal pain and requires immediate medical attention. If left untreated, it can burst leading to spread of infection in the abdominal cavity. Listed below are some of the symptoms:

Sudden onset of abdominal pain that begins around your navel and often shifts to your lower right abdomen.
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Vomiting

vConstipation or diarrhea

Trouble passing gas
Fever, usually not very high

What are the advantages of Laparoscopic Appendectomy?

Results may vary depending upon the type of procedure and patient’s overall condition. Common advantages are:

Less post -operative complications & pain
Shorter hospital stay
Faster return to normal activity
Minimal Scars

Am I a good candidate for Laparoscopic Appendectomy?

Although Laparoscopic Appendectomy has many benefits, it may not be suitable for all patients. Early, non-ruptured appendicitis can be managed laparoscopically. Laparoscopic Appendectomy is more difficult to perform, in case of advanced infection or if the appendix has ruptured. In such cases, open procedure is used to safely remove the infected appendix in these patients.