Appendicitis Surgery: Purpose, Procedure, Benefits and Side Effects

Appendicitis surgery refers to a surgical procedure that removes the infected and damaged appendix. It is a common procedure often employed to treat appendix-related issues. It is regarded as an emergency procure required to treat severe appendicitis symptoms.

In the event that you experience appendicitis symptoms, it's critical to get medical attention very once. An untreated condition can lead to a perforated appendix, which can rupture and spill bacteria and other dangerous materials into the abdominal cavity. This could endanger the patient's life and further stretch their hospital stay.

The usual course of action for appendicitis is an appendectomy. Before the appendix ruptures, it is essential to have the appendix removed as soon as possible. Most patients who undergo an appendectomy recover quickly, without any issues.

Notably, the appendix is a tube-shaped pouch located in the lower right side of the abdomen attached to your large intestine. Though, appendix's specific purpose is unknown, it's believed that it aids in our immunity. Despite the fact that this may seem like a vital part of our body, we may still function normally without an appendix.

To treat appendicitis symptoms usually, two types of surgeries are advised. These are- apen appendectomy, which is the conventional procedure, and a laparoscopic appendectomy, which is a minimally invasive technique. Both surgeries require the insertion of anesthesia.

It is an advanced procedure as compared to the later. It involves minimal invasion through an instrument named laparoscopy. It requires tiny incisions which allows less bleeding and creates fewer problems later on.

Open surgery is considered a conventional method of treating appendix issues. It involves a large incision through which the appendix is taken out. The bottom right side of the abdomen is where this cut is performed. Due to the large cut, more bleeding occurs during the procedure.

Appendicitis surgery helps to remove the appendix, along with the source of appendicitis. It possesses some benefits, such as-

• Peritonitis, a potentially fatal complication
• Eradication of recurring pain
• Less bleeding

Summary- Appendicitis surgery helps to prevent certain fatal disorders.

When due to an infection the appendix becomes inflamed and enlarged, an appendectomy is frequently performed to treat this condition by removing the appendix. This surgical procedure is known as appendicitis. An infection develops when bacteria and feces block the appendix's entrance, resulting in the swelling and inflammation of the appendix.

The removal of the appendix is the simplest and quickest technique to treat appendicitis. If appendicitis is not promptly and adequately treated, your appendix could rupture, as result the bacteria and feces contained in the appendix can spread into your belly. Appendix rupture could also result in a dangerous infection, Peritonitis, or in an abscess, both of which are life-threatening conditions, needing an emergency surgery.

Appendicitis surgery can also treat and manage the following symptoms, that include;

• Stomach ache that begins at the belly button and radiates around the lower right side of the abdomen
• Abdominal enlargement
• Muscularly stiff abdominals
• Bloating or diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Reduced appetite
• Fever

Summary- Appendicitis surgery is done to treat its symptoms, pain, and discomfort.

An appendectomy is a routine and very easy surgical procedure. However, there are some hazards associated with surgery, such as:

• Infection
• bleeding
• damage to adjacent organs
• scars
• Development of Hernias

Summary- Some risks of appendicitis surgery comprises of infection, allergy, bleeding, etc.

• Before the surgery you will be required to sign a consent document giving the go-ahead for the procedure.
• Once you're in the hospital, your doctor will conduct a physical examination and inquire about your medical history. The doctor will do your physical examination as well. This is to ensure that you are healthy enough to have surgery.
• Additionally, blood tests and other diagnostic exams can be required.
• You'll be connected to an IV before the appendectomy so you can get fluids and medicine.
• Most likely, general anesthetic will be administered, putting you to sleep throughout the procedure. However, in some instances, you may receive local anesthetic instead, which will keep you awake during the procedure, but will numb the area so that you won't feel any pain
• Before the procedure, you have to fast for eight hours. This frequently entails no eating or drinking after midnight.
• Make sure your healthcare professional has a list of all the prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as any herbs, vitamins, or supplements you are taking
• Tell you doctor if you are allergic to latex or certain drugs, such as anesthesia, or suspect you could be pregnant
• If you have a history of bleeding problems you should also tell your doctor
• You should also make plans for someone to pick you up from the treatment and drive you home.

Summary- Before undergoing surgery, patients need to take some tests and require a detailed diagnosis to rule out the exact situation.

Open and laparoscopic appendectomy procedures are both available options for appendicitis surgery. The extent of your appendicitis and your medical history are two factors that can influence the method of surgery your doctor recommends.

As you are being prepared for the operation, general anesthesia will be administered to put you into a deep slumber. In order to avoid muscular spasms, a muscle relaxant will also be administered to you. To keep your airways open and to monitor your breathing, a tiny tube will be inserted into your mouth and down into your throat. Throughout the procedure, the anesthesiologist will regularly check your vital signs.

Summary - Appendicitis surgery is completed by following some distinct steps.

• Through your arm an IV (intravenous) line will be inserted
• You will be positioned on the operating table on your back
• Excessive hair at the surgery site will be trimmed
• To assist with breathing, a tube will be inserted down your neck
• Throughout the procedure, the anesthesiologist will monitor your breathing, blood pressure, heart rate, and blood oxygen level

Operative Appendectomy

A single incision is made in the lower right side of your belly by the surgeon during an open appendectomy. Your appendix is removed, and stitches are used to heal the wound. If your appendix has ruptured, your doctor can use this treatment to clean the abdominal cavity.

If your appendix has ruptured and the infection has spread to other organs, your doctor may decide to perform an open appendectomy. Additionally, it's the preferred choice for those who have previously undergone abdominal surgery.

Laparoscopic Appendectomy

A surgeon will make a few tiny incisions in your abdomen to gain access to the appendix. The next step involves inserting a cannula, which is a small, narrow tube. Your abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide gas using the cannula, giving your surgeon a more clear view of your appendix.

A high-resolution camera and a high-intensity light mounted on a long, tiny tube will be introduced via the incision once the abdomen has been inflated. This laparoscopic camera and light enables the surgeon to see inside your abdomen and direct the instruments by looking at the images produced by the camera on a screen. The appendix will be located and removed after being tied off with stitches. Next, the tiny incisions are cleansed, stitched up, and dressed.

In most cases, laparoscopic surgery is the best choice for elderly and obese patients. It often requires less recovery time and carries less hazards than an open appendectomy.

After the appendectomy, you'll be kept under observation for a while before being allowed to leave the hospital. Your breathing and pulse rate, among other vital indications, will be carefully observed. The medical team at the hospital will also look for any negative effects of the anesthesia or the treatment.

Your release date will be determined by:

• Your entire state of health
• Your body's response to the surgery depends on the type of appendectomy that was done
• You might need to spend the night in the hospital in some circumstances

If your appendicitis wasn't too bad, you might be able to leave the hospital the same day as your surgery. If you had general anesthesia, you will need a friend or family member to take you home. It can be risky to drive following the treatment because general anesthesia normally takes many hours to wear off.

You can experience some pain in the following days after the appendectomy, where incisions were made. Any soreness or pain should disappear within a few days. In order to treat the pain, your doctor might recommend medication. Antibiotics may also be recommended to avoid an infection following surgery. By keeping the incisions clean, you can further lower your risk of contracting an infection. Additionally, watch out for any infections that may give following signs and symptoms.

• Redness and swelling around the incision
• Fever above 101°F
• Chills
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhea or constipation that lasts for more than two days

The majority of patients heal quickly following appendicitis and an appendectomy, despite the slight possibility of infection. It usually takes four to six weeks for an appendectomy patient to fully recover. Your doctor would probably advise you to avoid strenuous exercise during this time so that your body can recuperate. Within two to three weeks of the appendectomy, you must go to a follow-up appointment with your doctor.

The cost of appendicitis surgery usually differs from hospital to hospital or treating doctors who are operating the case. Approximately it cost about 20 thousand to 1.60 lakh maximum depending on a number of factors. It also includes a number of diagnostic tests and put a great impact on the overall cost of the operation. The cost of treating appendicitis can further be increased by medicines prescribed before or after the surgery.

Summary- The price of appendicitis surgery usually lies between 20 thousand to 1.5 lacs.

• Take proper rest and sound sleep
• Keep your incision(s) clean and dry to avoid infection
• For some time eat soft foods
• Drink a lot of water daily to avoid constipation
• Eat healthy and ensure you get enough sleep as these may aid in speedy recovery
• Try to go for a daily stroll
• Avoid lifting anything that would cause you to strain for around two weeks
• For the first several days, you might want to take a moderate laxative.
• Don’t stand for long as your abdominal muscles may hurt after prolonged standing if you underwent open surgery
• Stay away from intense activities like bicycling, running, weight lifting, or aerobic activities for around two weeks or till the time your doctor tells you to do so
• After a few days, gradually get back to your regular routine. Consistently engage in little exercise
• If you have any odd symptoms, contact your doctor

Summary- We must be very careful after appendicitis and follow post-surgery guidelines seriously.

Doctors advise a diet after surgery to boost energy and hasten the recovery process. These foods can be taken to recover from appendicitis-

• Fibrous foods: Increased fibre intake prevents constipation and makes it simpler to pass stools.
• Easily digestible foods: lighter options of foods like fruits, vegetables, soups, milk, rice, wheat, etc. are simple to digest and also aid in blood vessel creation, tissue growth, and repair.
• Foods that help boost immunity: foods high in vitamins A and C, such as eggs, carrots, fresh vegetables, lemon, oranges, and amla (Indian Gooseberry) strengthen the immune system and aid in warding off any illnesses. It results in the prevention of infection and is essential for the production of white blood cells.
• Return to your regular diet: The patient should resume their regular diet if they are not experiencing any adverse issues.

Summary- We must include nutritious foods in our diets to overcome appendicitis symptoms.

Appendicitis surgery possesses almost no threats but it must be done by an experienced doctor only. Appendectomy is considered the safest course of action for appendicitis. As soon as we observe Appendicitis symptoms, we must consult a doctor to know about further procedures.

Summary- Appendectomy is a safe procedure to treat appendicitis.

Appendicitis surgery is considered a little painful. However, patients are sedated during the procedure via general anesthesia. It helps to tackle the surgical pain so the patient will likely experience no pain during or a little pain following the procedure.

Summary- General anesthesia is inserted to combat pain during appendicitis surgery.

The length of your recovery depends on the complexity of your appendicitis and surgery, as well as how well your body handled both. In general, discomfort and side effects ought to significantly diminish in a short period of time. Returning to your regular activities might need a few days to several weeks. Most people fully recover in six weeks.

Summary- Recovery phases vary to a greater extent in different patients.

Over the following several days of appendicitis surgery, you can suffer certain operation-related side effects. Typical side-effects of appendicitis surgery include:

• Nausea
• Constipation for short period of time after surgery
• Gas problem due to the carbon dioxide that was pumped into the abdomen during the laparoscopy surgery
• Stomach bloating which will lessen over the next few weeks

Summary- Some common side-effects accompanied by appendicitis surgery are digestive issues along with nausea.

• You must keep the incision clean and dry at home. You'll receive bathing advice from your doctor.
• Any surgical staples or stitches will be taken out during a subsequent appointment visit. If adhesive strips were applied, it is best to keep them dry.
• They mostly disappear after a few days
• Your abdominal muscles and the incision may hurt, especially after prolonged
• standing. As advised by your doctor, take a painkiller
• Your risk of bleeding may increase if you use aspirin or other painkillers. Take only medications that have been prescribed by your doctor
• Walk and move about a little but stay away from anything strenuous.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, get in touch with your doctor right away:

• Cold or fever
• Bruising, bleeding, or other discharge at the site of the incision
• More discomfort near the incision site
• Vomiting
• Lack of appetite or inability to consume any food or liquids
• Persistent coughing, breathing difficulties, or shortness of breath
• Stomach cramps, discomfort, or swelling
• No bowel movement for at least two days
• Diarrhea for more than three days

Summary- Following some aftercare tips after surgery smoothens the recovery phase.

The safest and most successful approach to treat appendicitis, as well as to stop it from coming back and spreading the infection, an immediate surgical procedure should be performed. The minor condition might turn deadly if the operation is postponed as the appendix could rupture, spilling germs into the bloodstream and creating a potentially fatal infection.