Appendectomy (appendix surgery)

Before appendectomy, patients are evaluated through physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans to confirm the diagnosis of appendicitis. Doctors assess the severity of the condition and check for signs of rupture or infection. Patients are usually advised not to eat or drink before surgery. Intravenous fluids and antibiotics are administered to stabilize the patient and reduce the risk of infection. Since appendectomy is often performed as an emergency, preparation time may be limited.

On the day of surgery, the patient is given general anesthesia to ensure they are unconscious and pain-free. In laparoscopic appendectomy, small incisions are made in the abdomen, and a camera along with surgical instruments is inserted. The surgeon identifies the inflamed appendix, removes it, and cleans the area to prevent infection. In open surgery, a single larger incision is made in the lower abdomen to remove the appendix. After removal, the incisions are closed with stitches or surgical glue. The procedure typically takes 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity and whether the appendix has ruptured.

After surgery, patients are monitored in the recovery area until the effects of anesthesia wear off. Pain is usually mild and manageable with medication. Most patients can start drinking fluids within a few hours and gradually return to a normal diet. Patients are encouraged to walk soon after surgery to promote recovery and prevent complications. The hospital stay is usually short, ranging from same-day discharge to 1–2 days. Follow-up visits are scheduled to ensure proper healing.