Appendectomy Specialist

What is an appendectomy?

An appendectomy is a surgery to remove the appendix, found in your abdomen’s lower right area and attached to your large intestine. Experts aren’t sure what the appendix’s purpose is, but it might help reduce inflammation in your intestines.

The surgeons at Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC, offer two types of appendectomy. The first is called an open appendectomy and involves a large incision in your abdomen. Through this incision, your surgeon can clearly see the appendix and their instruments as they remove it. They complete the process by closing the incision with stitches.

A laparoscopic appendectomy is a minimally invasive alternative to open appendectomy. You recover quicker, and scars are small. First, your surgeon inflates your abdomen with carbon dioxide gas using a narrow tube through a small incision.

They use a laparoscope, which includes a bright light and high-resolution camera, to project an image of your inner abdomen onto a nearby monitor. They manipulate slim instruments through small incisions to safely remove your appendix.

What does appendectomy treat?

An appendectomy is the easiest way to treat an infected appendix (appendicitis). Without an appendectomy, the infected appendix can burst, spreading harmful bacteria to other internal organs. This can be life-threatening, so you must get help right away if you have symptoms of appendicitis. You can survive without an appendix.

How do I know if I need an appendectomy?

If you experience possible symptoms of appendicitis, you should book an appointment right away at Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC. These symptoms can include:

• Sudden stomach pain in your lower right abdomen
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal swelling
• Low appetite
• Low-grade fever

If you’re pregnant, the pain of appendicitis might feel a bit different. Instead of being in your lower right abdomen, it seems to come from your upper abdomen. This is because of the changes to your anatomy that happen temporarily during pregnancy.

How should I prepare for my appendectomy?

The skilled Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC, surgeons make sure you’re well prepared for your appendectomy, whether it’s open or laparoscopic surgery. They ask about the medications you’re taking and might advise you to stop them or temporarily take them less often. They might also ask you to:

• Fast for at least eight hours
• Arrange a ride to the surgery appointment and back home
• Answer questions about your current or past health
• Mention any allergies, especially to latex and medications, beforehand
• Undergo a physical exam and testing

You can ask questions before your appendectomy. The surgeons at Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC, have extensive experience treating appendicitis. They can give you detailed information about the procedure and recovery.

Appendicitis is an emergency, especially if your appendix ruptures. To schedule an appointment and find out if you need an appendectomy, call Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC, today or book an appointment online at your convenience.