The appendix is a narrow, finger-shaped organ located in the lower right side of the belly. It is connected to the large intestine and has no function in humans. Appendectomy is done as emergency surgery for appendicitis because the appendix has become inflamed (swollen) and needs to be removed. If it is not removed, it could burst and cause an infection called peritonitis in the abdomen. A laparoscopic or “lap” appendectomy is a minimally invasive surgery to remove the appendix through several small incisions, rather than through one large one. Recovery time from the lap appendectomy is short.

Appendectomy is the standard treatment for appendicitis. It’s crucial to remove the appendix right away, before the appendix can rupture. Once an appendectomy is performed, most people recover quickly and without complications.

Laparoscopic surgery is usually the best option for older adults and people who are overweight. It has fewer risks than an open appendectomy procedure and generally has a shorter recovery time.