Appendectomy

Best Appendectomy Treatment & Diagnostics in Chembur, Mumbai

Appendectomy is a surgical procedure during which an inflamed appendix is removed. Vermiform appendix is a vestigial organ in the human body, i.e. it has no function in the body.

What do you need to know about appendicitis and appendectomy?

The appendix is a blind sac or pouch arising from the intestine in which food particles may be collected. These food particles may get impacted leading to inflammation of the appendix known as appendicitis. It presents as severe pain in the right lower part of the abdomen. Inflamed appendix may rupture or burst and cause many complications, thus it is essential to remove an inflamed appendix as early as possible. You must visit a general surgery hospital near you as soon as symptoms appear. A burst appendix is a medical emergency.

During appendectomy, the appendix is tied and cut off from the intestine and the stump is stitched. This procedure may be done as an open surgery or a laparoscopy-assisted surgery.

What are the types of appendectomy?

• Open appendectomy: A 3-5 cm cut or incision is made in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen and appendix is identified and removed through this incision.
• Laparoscopic appendectomy: It is a less invasive method. Three tiny cuts are made for the scope and various ports for instruments to pass into the abdomen. A laparoscope is a tube with a camera attached to it. The surgeon works by guiding the instruments while viewing a computer monitor. The appendix is removed through one of these incisions.  There is less pain and infection rates are lower.

Your surgical gastroenterologist is the doctor who specializes in appendix surgery. A surgical gastroenterologist undergoes years of training to develop the skills required for this procedure. 

When do you need to see a doctor?

Consult a doctor as soon as you feel pain in the lower right abdomen or if you have the slightest indication of appendicitis. 

You can request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Chembur, Mumbai.

Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.

How is appendectomy conducted?

Appendectomy is a major surgery for which you must provide a signed consent. Any other medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, asthma, epilepsy, bleeding disorders, cardiac issues, etc. must be declared. You must also inform the doctor if you are or think you may be pregnant. You will undergo preoperative blood tests and other diagnostics like ultrasound abdomen.

• You will need to fast for 8-12 hours prior to surgery in view of general anesthesia.
• A mild sedative may be given to calm your nerves before surgery.
• You will be given general anesthesia by intubation to help you breathe during surgery.
• Open appendectomy - Incision is made and skin and soft tissue are dissected and abdominal muscles are separated. Appendix is identified and cut off after stitching the stump. In cases of burst appendix, peritoneal or abdominal saline wash is given. The wound is closed with sutures and a tube might be placed to drain out the fluid that might collect post-operatively. Drain will be removed once collection is minimal.
• Laparoscopic appendectomy - Three incisions are made to insert a laparoscope and various instruments. Carbon dioxide gas is puffed into the abdomen to elevate it so that the organs can be clearly seen. Procedure similar to open appendectomy is then done.

What are the complications associated with appendectomy?

Any surgical procedure has a risk of complications but this should not deter a patient from undergoing the surgery.

Pre-operative complications:

• Anxiety
• Peritonitis due to bursting of appendix

Intraoperative complications:

• Excessive bleeding
• Injury to adjacent bowel
• Blocking of bowels

Post-operative complications:

• Wound infection
• Incomplete resection of the appendix due to misidentification or inadequate visualization

Conclusion

Appendicitis is a serious condition which should not be taken lightly. Appendectomy seems to be the best method of avoiding complications of appendicitis. It is necessary to perform the surgery before the appendix bursts and peritonitis sets in. A skilled surgical gastroenterologist in Mumbai will be able to treat appendicitis efficiently.