Appendectomy

Home » Appendectomy » Overview, Surgical Procedures

Overview

Appendectomy is the surgical removal of the appendix, a small, finger-shaped pouch that is located at the cecum (the junction between the large and small intestines). The surgery is the standard treatment for appendicitis (inflammation and infection of the appendix) and patients usually recover from appendectomy without experiencing complications. A ruptured appendix is considered a medical emergency.

Surgeons use one of two surgical techniques, open appendectomy or laparoscopic appendectomy. The choice of method is made by the surgeon on a case-by-case basis. General anesthesia (agent that renders the patient unconscious) is used in both procedures.

© 1998-2010 Healthcommunities.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Appendectomy Resources

	Join Our Appendectomy Forum Do you have a question, want to share medical advice, or just need to discuss your situation with someone else having a similar experience? The healthchannels forum is a resource for everyone to share and discuss their health and medical needs with others.	Advertising Disclaimer
	Living with...Share your story Do you have a personal health story that you would like to share with others? As a source of free patient education, our goal is to provide our users with trustworthy information and support from others. That's why we've started our "Living with..." sections.
	Our "Living With..." support pages are a place to share experiences about living with a certain condition, disease, disorder, or illness and for loved ones of those dealing with health-related issues. Many people, especially when newly diagnosed, find comfort in knowing that others are having a similar experience. Help others by sharing your story. View stories already submitted.
	Stay Updated Sign up for our newsletter and receive important updates on the medical conditions that are most important to you.
To quickly access health information from your website's browser, download Healthcommunities.com's healthchannels toolbar. Advertising Disclaimer