Laparoscopic Appendectomy

A laparoscopic appendectomy is a minimally invasive surgery to treat conditions of the appendix, such as appendicitis.

Your appendix is a tiny and narrow finger-shaped portion of your large intestine. It usually hangs down from the lower right side of your abdomen. Sometimes, the appendix can become inflamed, also known as appendicitis.

A laparoscopic appendectomy is done under general anesthesia. First, the doctor will make several tiny cuts in the abdomen and insert a miniature camera called a laparoscope and instruments into your abdomen through a cannula that enable the doctor to get a magnified view of the patient's internal organs. The doctor will make as many as three or four incisions. Then, the doctor will go through the incisions with the instruments to remove the appendix.

After the surgery, you may experience some nausea or vomiting. The level of activity depends on how you feel, but walking is encouraged. Typically, patients can shower and remove the dressings the day after surgery. You should be able to engage in normal activities within a week.