Laparoscopic Appendix Surgery

The appendix is a narrow, blind-ended tube about three and a half inches long that projects from the colon. It is also known as the abdominal tonsil because it contains lymphoid tissue. Inflammation of the appendix is called appendicitis. Appendicitis can affect anyone but is more common in children and adolescents.

Causes

Appendicitis usually occurs when the opening (lumen) of the appendix is blocked by:

• Foreign bodies
• Hardened stools
• Enlarged lymphoid follicles
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Trauma to the body
• Tumors

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain starting near the navel and later shifting to the lower right side
• Loss of appetite or indigestion
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Feeling of fullness in the abdomen
• Low-grade fever

Treatment

Initially, conservative medical management may be tried, but most patients eventually require an appendectomy—surgical removal of the appendix.

Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive technique involving several small cuts in the abdomen. A tiny camera and surgical instruments are used to remove the appendix. This method offers minimal pain after surgery, no visible scar, and a quick return to normal activities, often within one week.