What Happens During Appendectomy?
An appendix removal surgery is of two types: Laparoscopic Appendectomy and Open Appendectomy. Laparoscopic surgery is the common appendicitis surgery carried by doctors as it is less invasive than Open surgery.
Laparoscopic appendix operation
Usually, a doctor performs this surgery with the help of general anesthesia. After a person is unconscious, a surgeon makes a few small cuts around the abdomen to get access to the appendix. Further, the surgeon inserts a small, narrow tube called a Cannula to fill the abdomen with carbon dioxide gas. This gas helps the surgeon to look at the appendix clearly.
Once the abdomen is filled with carbon dioxide, an instrument called a laparoscope is inserted through the incision. A laparoscope is a thin, long tube with a high-resolution camera and high-intensity light. The camera and light on the laparoscope help the surgeon to see inside the abdomen through a screen and guide the instruments.
When the appendix is found, the surgeon ties it off with stitches and removes it. Once removed, the surgeon cleans the small incisions, closes the cuts, and dresses properly.
According to health experts, laparoscopic appendix removal is the best option for overweight individuals and older people. It is considered to have fewer risks than an open appendix operation and generally has a shorter recovery duration.
Open appendix operation
During an open appendicectomy, a surgeon makes one big cut in the lower right side of the abdomen. The surgeon then removes the appendix and closes the wound with stitches. According to the doctors, this type of surgery helps the surgeon to clean the abdominal cavity in case the appendix has burst.