Laparoscopic Appendicectomy

Appendicectomy is the surgical removal of appendix, a small finger-shaped organ attached to the cecum (first part of the colon). Appendicectomy is indicated in appendicitis, the inflammation of appendix.

The newer method, laparoscopic surgery, uses several smaller incisions and special surgical tools fed through the incisions to remove the appendix.

Before the procedure, your doctor will briefly explain the entire procedure. You will be offered the opportunity to ask any questions that you may have about the procedure. Your doctor will obtain your entire medical history, perform a thorough physical examination, and obtain blood and other diagnostic tests to check for any abnormality. You should notify your doctor about your medications, allergies, or any other existing medical condition. You will be instructed to be on an empty stomach before undergoing the procedure. Your doctor will instruct you on specific preparation depending on your condition.

The surgeon makes an incision over the abdomen and inserts a harmless gas into the abdominal cavity to expand the viewing area of the abdomen. Surgeon inserts trocar into an incision through which the laparoscope is introduced into the abdomen .Additional small incisions may be used for inserting surgical instruments to be used during the procedure. With the images from the laparoscope as a guide, the surgeon can look at the appendix and determine the extent of the problem and removes the appendix. Once the appendix is removed the area is washed with sterile fluid to minimise the risk of infection. The tiny incisions are closed and covered with small bandages.

Laparoscopic surgery leads to fewer complications, such as hospital-related infections, and have a shorter recovery time.