Appendectomy

An appendectomy is a surgical procedure to remove an inflamed or infected appendix. Here’s what happens:

• Anaesthesia: First, you'll get general anaesthesia so you won't feel pain or discomfort during the procedure.
• Type of surgery: Your surgeon may perform either open surgery (one incision) or laparoscopic surgery (small incisions with a camera).
• Incision: To remove an infected appendix, your surgeon will make an incision in the lower right side of your abdomen.
• Abdominal washing: If your appendix has ruptured, your surgeon will wash your abdomen with salt water to get rid of any infection.
• Drainage: To drain fluid or pus from an incision, a small tube may be placed within.
• Closure: After surgery, your surgeon will close the incision with stitches or staples.

The entire procedure lasts about an hour. After this, you will move to recovery, where your health is monitored before discharge.

The appendectomy is a permanent solution for appendicitis, ensuring long-term health. It provides several key benefits, especially in treating appendicitis:

• Pain relief: After appendectomy, you'll get relief from persistent abdominal pain, fever and signs of infection.
• Low complication rate: Once the appendix is removed, appendicitis will not recur, preventing rupture and life-threatening conditions like peritonitis.
• Faster recovery: Most people recover fully and return to normal activities within a few weeks.
• Cosmetic benefits: Laparoscopic appendectomy minimises scarring, provides better aesthetics and increases patient satisfaction.
• Improves Quality of Life: After the procedure, you no longer have to worry about the risks of future appendix infections.

After an appendectomy, it's important to schedule a follow-up visit with your doctor within two to three weeks. However, you should contact your doctor immediately if you notice any signs of infection, such as:

• Discolouration or swelling at the incision site.
• Fever.
• Stomach cramps.
• Loss of appetite.

These symptoms could indicate complications that need prompt medical attention to ensure a smooth recovery.

The Calcutta Medical Research Institute (CMRI) offers expert care with experienced surgeons and advanced technology for safe and effective appendectomy procedures. Their compassionate team ensures personalised care, minimal recovery time, and a smooth experience. With state-of-the-art facilities and a strong focus on patient well-being, CMRI Hospital, Kolkata is a trusted choice for quality surgical care.