Appendectomy Specialist

What is Appendicitis?

Appendicitis is the inflammation and infection of the appendix. The symptoms of appendicitis can frequently be vague, but typically start with abdominal pain in the center of the abdomen that settles over the right, lower portion of the abdomen.  It usually presents with a loss of appetite and other potential symptoms include fever, vomiting, or diarrhea. These symptoms can also be seen in a wide range of other common medical problems like bladder or urinary tract infections, gallbladder issues, gastritis, intestinal infections, and Crohn’s disease. To diagnose appendicitis, the doctor will:

• Take a detailed history

• Perform a physical exam to identify and localize inflammation inside the abdomen

• Use a urine test to rule out a UTI

• Use a blood test to look for signs of infection

• Perform a CT or ultrasound to try and look at the appendix and surrounding organs and confirm signs of inflammation

How is Appendicitis Treated?

Surgery is recommended for appendicitis in nearly all cases. Usually when appendicitis is suspected, the doctor will want to remove the person’s appendix within the next 24 hours to avoid a possible rupture. This can cause the rest of the internal organs to become infected and can be dangerous or even life-threatening. In our practice laparoscopic appendectomy is the preferred method to remove the appendix.

What Should I Expect from the Appendectomy?

Before the procedure, the doctor will most likely prescribe antibiotics via an IV to help fight the infection. The patient will be placed under general anesthesia and will be asleep during the procedure. A laparoscope will be inserted through a tiny incision and will be used by the surgeon to direct his movements inside the person’s abdominal cavity. Then special instruments will be inserted through additional, small incisions. These will be used to remove the appendix. Recovery and healing will occur quickly after surgery and scarring should be minimal. Usually, within 12 hours of surgery the person can get up, walk around, and begin drinking. Routinely, patients will be discharged from the hospital the day after surgery.