Abdominal Surgery - Appendectomy
Piedmont General Surgery Associates provides procedures for appendectomy in Rock Hill, SC. Appendectomy is a surgical removal of the appendix that is commonly used to treat appendicitis. The appendix is a small, tube-shaped pouch located at the end of the large intestine on the lower right side of the abdomen, and its exact purpose isn’t known. Medical professionals believe that the appendix may help us recover from diarrhea, inflammation, and infections of the intestines, but the body is able to function without it.
When appendicitis occurs, the appendix becomes inflamed and swollen. Bacteria can quickly multiply inside the appendix and lead to the formation of pus. This buildup of bacteria and pus causes pain that typically begins around the navel and spreads to the lower right area of the abdomen. As the inflammation and swelling worsens, the pain increases and can become severe. Patients with appendicitis may also experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
It is imperative that individuals who are experiencing symptoms of appendicitis seek medical treatment immediately. If the condition goes untreated, the appendix can burst and release bacteria and other harmful toxins into the abdominal cavity. This can lead to a longer hospital stay once the condition is eventually treated, or could even be life threatening.
An appendectomy should be performed as soon as it is confirmed that a patient has appendicitis. Appendectomy is a very common and simple procedure, with very little risks. The risks of leaving appendicitis untreated far outweigh the risks of surgery. There are two types of appendectomy: open and laparoscopic. The method used will depend on the severity of the appendicitis, medical history, and other factors that the physician will take into account.
An open appendectomy is performed by making a single incision in the lower right side of the abdomen. The appendix is removed and the wound is closed with stitches. A doctor may choose this type of appendectomy if the appendix has ruptured so that they can clean the abdominal cavity, or if the patient has had abdominal surgery before.
A laparoscopic appendectomy is performed by making a few small incisions in the abdomen. A narrow tube called a cannula is inserted and used to inflate the abdomen with carbon dioxide gas so that that physician can see the appendix more clearly. A laparoscope is then inserted into the incision, and a camera and high-intensity light at the end of it helps the physician to see inside the abdomen and guide their instruments to locate the appendix, tie it off with stitches, and remove it. This option has less risks and a shorter recovery time and is better for patients who are older or overweight.
Our South Carolina surgery associates are proud to provide leading-edge surgical treatments and compassionate care. To learn more, call us at (803) 580-2178.