Appendectomy is a surgical procedure that is used for removing an infected appendix. The appendix is a small pouch that connects the large intestine to the stomach, and it is located in the lower right corner of the stomach. When the appendix becomes inflamed, enlarged, and infected, this condition is called appendicitis, and it can be extremely painful to deal with. If left untreated, it can lead to further complications.
In the case of appendicitis, the appendix has to be removed at the earliest to avoid the risk of it bursting. Due to the high level of risk associated with such an event, this condition is considered life-threatening.
Why Is An Appendectomy Required?
If the patient has symptoms of appendicitis; the doctor will suggest an appendectomy procedure to remove the appendix. The symptoms are:
Pain in the lower abdomen that starts on the right side and progresses to the left.
Sudden pain in the lower right abdomen that begins around the navel.
Coughing, walking, or other jarring movements aggravate the pain.
Vomiting and nausea.
Appetite loss.
Fever
Diarrhea or constipation
Bloating in the abdomen
Flatulence
There is a significant possibility of the appendix bursting or rupturing if one is suffering from appendicitis, and this might happen within 48 to 72 hours from the onset of symptoms. This condition can also induce peritonitis, a life-threatening infection in the stomach.