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Appendectomy
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Appendectomy is the surgical removal of the appendix, a small tube-like organ attached to the large intestine. It is one of the most common emergency surgeries worldwide, performed to treat appendicitis — inflammation of the appendix. If untreated, appendicitis can lead to rupture, peritonitis, and life-threatening complications.
This article explains appendectomy in detail: what appendicitis is, its symptoms, causes, risks, prevention, diagnosis, surgical procedure, recovery, and long-term outlook.
Overview
Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed, swollen, and infected. The appendix has no essential function, but when blocked, it can cause severe pain and infection.
Appendectomy is the definitive treatment — either open surgery or laparoscopic surgery
Understanding The Procedure
Symptoms Appendectomy
- ⦾ Sudden abdominal pain starting near the navel, shifting to the lower right side
- ⦾ Loss of appetite
- ⦾ Nausea and vomiting
- ⦾ Fever and chills
- ⦾ Abdominal swelling
- ⦾ Constipation or diarrhea
Risks
- ⦾ Infection at incision site
- ⦾ Bleeding
- ⦾ Abscess formation
- ⦾ Bowel obstruction due to adhesions
- ⦾ Rare recurrence if appendix remnant left
Post-Operative Care
- ⦾ Pain management with medications.
- ⦾ Antibiotics if infection present.
- ⦾ Wound care and hygiene.
- ⦾ Gradual return to diet and activity.
- ⦾ Follow-up visits for healing check.
Long Term Outlook
Appendectomy is highly successful. Once removed, the appendix does not grow back, and patients live normal lives. Early surgery prevents life-threatening complications.
Appendectomy is a safe, effective, and life-saving procedure for appendicitis. With modern surgical techniques, recovery is quick, and risks are minimal. Patients should seek immediate medical care for sudden abdominal pain to avoid rupture and complications.
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