Surgery Appendix
What is Appendix Surgery?
Appendix surgery, also called appendicectomy, is an operation to remove the appendix. The appendix is a small pouch attached to the start of the large bowel, low on the right side of your abdomen. You do not need it, and life is entirely normal without one.
It is removed when it becomes inflamed and infected, which is a condition called appendicitis. Most appendicectomies are performed as keyhole surgery through a few small cuts, under general anaesthetic, and usually takes under two hours.
Appendicitis does not settle on its own once it is established, so the operation is normally carried out urgently, often within hours of the diagnosis.
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Before: Most people come through an emergency department with appendicitis. You will have blood tests and usually a scan, then be kept fasting while a theatre is arranged. Dr Salter will see you and explain the diagnosis and treatment.
During: You will be asleep under general anaesthetic. The operation usually takes under two hours, and you will wake in the recovery room with a nurse beside your bedside.
After: Expect pain around the cuts for a few days. Dr Salter calls your next of kin once you are out of surgery and will review you on the ward before you go home. Your GP has a discharge letter from Dr Salter when you leave the hospital.
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Most people go home within one to two days. If the appendix had burst, the stay in hospital is longer and antibiotics are continued. Desk work is usually possible within two weeks if you recover quickly, and physical work takes longer. Avoid heavy lifting for 4 - 6 weeks, and you can drive again once you can brake comfortably. These are typical timeframes and Dr Salter will advise you further.
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There is usually no time to prepare for an appendicectomy. If someone can bring in your medications list, glasses and phone charger to the hospital, that would help.