Appendectomy

Within the lower right side of the abdomen sits a small pouch called the appendix. Attached to the large intestine, the appendix supports the functioning of our immune system. Sometimes an infection — known as appendicitis — can develop in this organ, leading to severe pain and inflammation.

In fact, appendicitis is the most common cause of acute abdominal pain requiring surgery in the United States, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

Left untreated, appendicitis can cause serious problems. An infected appendix can burst open, allowing the infection to spread to other parts of the abdominal cavity. Our general surgeons are trained to evaluate appendicitis and determine an appropriate treatment method.

Appendectomy methods

In some cases, antibiotics can cure appendicitis. When medications aren’t enough, your doctor may recommend an appendectomy — the surgical removal of the appendix. Methods for performing an appendectomy include the following:

Open appendectomy

During an open appendectomy, a surgeon makes a single incision in the abdomen and removes the diseased appendix. This method may be required in cases where:

• The appendix is severely infected and inflamed
• The appendix has already ruptured
• Scar tissue or other issues makes it difficult to view organs clearly
• Patients have chronic conditions such as obesity

Laparoscopic appendectomy

A laparoscopic appendectomy is less invasive than a traditional open appendectomy. During this procedure, a surgeon makes small incisions (typically three) in the abdominal area. Next, a thin tool with small video camera and light attached to it — known as a laparoscope — is inserted into one of these incisions.

The camera sends images to a video monitor, which provides a clear view of the surgical site. The surgeon then uses specialized tools to remove the appendix through one of these small incisions.

Robotic-assisted laparoscopic appendectomy

MultiCare surgeons may also perform robotic-assisted laparoscopic appendectomies using the da Vinci Surgical System. In this type of procedure, a surgeon guides the robotic arms of the da Vinci system to the surgical site. This technology can improve precision and allow for a greater range of motion. Learn more about robotic-assisted surgery.