Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Damage to other organs
• Reaction to anesthesia
• Blockage of the bowel

Before your procedure, talk to your doctor about ways to manage factors that may increase your risk of complications such as:

• Smoking
• Drinking
• Chronic disease such as diabetes or obesity

Prior to Procedure

Your doctor may do the following:

• Physical exam
• Blood and urine tests
• Imaging studies of the abdomen may be done to find the appendix and look for evidence of infection or inflammation, including:
  • Ultrasound
  • CT scan
  • X-rays

IV fluids and antibiotics will be started right away. Since appendicitis is an emergency condition, surgery is almost always done as soon a possible after the diagnosis is made.

Anesthesia

General anesthesia will be used. You will be asleep during the procedure.

Description of the Procedure

Three small incisions will be made in the abdomen. A laparoscope (small tool with a camera on the end) will be passed through an incision. Gas will be blown into the abdomen to make it easier for the doctor to see. Other tools will be inserted into the incisions. The camera will send images to a video screen. These images will be used to find and remove the appendix.

The appendix will be detached from surrounding tissue. Any bleeding from the blood vessels will be stopped. The appendix will then be tied off and cut out. The incisions will be closed with stitches or staples.

After Procedure

The removed tissue is examined by a pathologist.

How Long Will It Take?

1-2 hours

How Much Will It Hurt?

Anesthesia will prevent pain during surgery. Pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medications.

Average Hospital Stay

You may go home on the same day, if the surgery was routine. If infection, rupture, or other complications happen, the stay will be longer.

Post-procedure Care