Appendicectomy (Appendectomy)

Understanding Appendicitis

Appendicitis is when the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine, becomes inflamed. A blockage often causes this inflammation and can lead to severe pain and, if untreated, life-threatening complications. Appendicitis is a common emergency requiring prompt surgical intervention, particularly among children, teenagers, and young adults.

What is an Appendicectomy?

An appendicectomy is the surgical removal of the appendix, typically performed when a patient has appendicitis. It’s considered the most effective treatment to prevent the appendix from rupturing, which can lead to a potentially dangerous spread of infection within the abdomen. Today, most appendicectomies are performed laparoscopically, a minimally invasive approach allowing quicker recovery times and less post-operative pain.

Appendicitis in Australia

Appendicitis is a common cause of emergency abdominal surgery in Australia. Roughly 1 in 15 Australians will experience appendicitis at some point, with a peak incidence between ages 10 and 30. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) has noted that around 50,000 Australians undergo an appendectomy each year. While typically not preventable, timely diagnosis and surgery can significantly reduce the risk of complications.

Symptoms of Appendicitis

Pain starting around the navel and moving to the lower right abdomen.
Pain that worsens with movement, coughing, or walking.
Nausea and vomiting.
Loss of appetite.
Low-grade fever that may increase as the inflammation progresses.
Swelling or tenderness in the abdomen.

It’s essential to seek medical attention quickly if you experience these symptoms, as appendicitis can worsen rapidly.

Causes of Appendicitis

Appendicitis often occurs when the appendix becomes blocked by stool, a foreign body, or in some cases, a tumor. Infections can also lead to inflammation and obstruction, causing the appendix to swell and eventually rupture if untreated.

Diagnostic Tests for Appendicitis

To confirm appendicitis, doctors may recommend several diagnostic tests, including:

Physical examination: A doctor checks for pain in the lower right abdomen, as well as other specific signs.
Blood tests: These can reveal signs of infection, such as elevated white blood cells.
Imaging studies: An ultrasound or CT scan can provide detailed images to confirm the inflammation and rule out other conditions.

Complications of Untreated Appendicitis

If appendicitis is left untreated, the appendix can rupture, leading to peritonitis (infection in the abdominal cavity), abscesses, or severe sepsis, which are potentially life-threatening. Timely appendectomy is crucial to prevent these serious complications.

Treatments for Appendicitis

The most common treatment for appendicitis is surgery. There are two main types:

Laparoscopic Appendectomy: This minimally invasive surgery involves a few small incisions, resulting in faster recovery and less postoperative discomfort.
Open Appendectomy: In more complicated cases, or if the appendix has ruptured, an open surgery with a larger incision may be necessary.

After surgery, patients are typically advised to limit physical activity for a few weeks, with recovery times varying based on the surgery type and the patient’s condition.

For more information or to book a consultation with Dr Craven, please call us on (03) 9852 3777 or email us at info@dralexcraven.com.au.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can appendicitis be prevented?

Appendicitis cannot be prevented, but a balanced fibre-rich diet may reduce the risk of blockage.

How long is recovery after an appendectomy?

Recovery varies but most patients will need to stay for 1 or 2 nights in hospital, then recovery over 1–3 weeks for laparoscopic procedures and up to 6 weeks for open surgery.

Will removing the appendix affect my health?

The appendix does not have an essential function, so most people experience no long-term health issues after its removal.

What happens if my appendix ruptures?

If the appendix ruptures, it requires immediate treatment, often with antibiotics, followed by surgery to prevent serious complications.

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