Appendicectomy for Appendicitis – Open or Laparoscopic

I have heard about appendix bursting if not treated. What is that?

Once you develop appendicitis appendix becomes soft, wet and gangrenous like a wet tissue paper. As a result of this it can perforate. Perforated appendicitis is much more difficult to treat compared to unperforated.

Can you explain a bit more about appendicitis and perforated appendicitis?

Perforated appendicitis takes longer to operate. It has higher risk of problems after operations like abscess, temperature, adhesions etc. Hospital stay is generally more. Risk of wound infection is about 10% compared to 2% in cases without perforation. In young women it can cause inability to conceive children due adhesions in pelvis, Most important thing is that it is life threatening in some cases.

Can it be done laparoscopically?

Yes it can be! Laparoscopic surgery has advantage of less pain, early mobilization and early return to work. In females it has extra advantage of visualization of uterus, tubes and ovaries.

Can it always be done laparoscopically?

No, not always! In some cases it cannot be done due to technical reasons or in very complicated cases. Your surgeon will decide these things. Somebody said if you get it done laparoscopically it can happen again. Some part is left behind in laparoscopy. That is not true. Laparoscopy is slightly different way of doing exactly the same operation.

Are there any risks of operation?

Every operation carries a small risk of anaesthesia, infection, bleeding and injury. You can discuss these in further details with your surgeon if you want.

What do you do in laparoscopic appendix operation? In Laparoscopic Surgery we make three holes in the abdomen like key holes and use specialized instruments to remove appendix.

Does it mainly happen in young girls? Appendicitis can happen at any age and can affect any gender. It is a very common cause of abdominal pain. It can be dangerous if left untreated.