Appendectomy: Frequently Asked Questions

In experienced hand there is not any specific complication directly related to laparoscopic procedure but if the surgeon is not trained enough in laparoscopy than the chance of following complication is there: Missed diagnosis Bleeding Incomplete appendectomy Visceral Injury Leakage of purulent exudates from appendix at the time of operation: Intra-abdominal abscess Hernia But inexperience hand these complications are extremely rare. ...

Laparoscopic appendectomy provide less postoperative morbidity. Most cases of acute appendicitis can be treated laparoscopically. Laparoscopic appendectomy is a useful method for reducing hospital stay, complications and return to normal activity. The main advantages are: Less post-operative pain Faster recovery Short hospital stay Less post-operative complications like wound infection and adhesion Cost-effective in working group Back to Top

In a minimally invasive laparoscopic appendectomy, an endoscope and a few surgical instruments are inserted through a series of small incisions so the appendix can be removed with less pain and a shorter recovery period. The camera on the endoscope allows the surgeon to confirm the presence of appendicitis and perform the surgery without making a large incision. Patients return home in as little as one day, although a week's recovery may be necessary if the appendix is perforated or peritonitis has occurred.

It is not clear if the appendix has an important role in the body in older children and adults. There are no major, long-term health problems resulting from removing the appendix although a slight increase in some diseases has been noted, for example, Crohn's disease.

Some possible complications of this procedure include: Infection of the skin Leakage from the bowel causing fistula or abscess, possibly requiring colostomy Prolonged intestinal ileus (paralysis of intestinal function) Very rare complications include: Bleeding requiring transfusion or re-operation Injury to surrounding structures, including ureter and small intestine Adverse reaction to the anesthesia Blood clots and pulmonary embolism Any complication can lead to additional procedures, re-operation and prolonged recove... ...

Most surgeons would not recommend laparoscopic appendicectomy in those with pre-existing disease conditions. Patients with cardiac diseases and COPD should not be considered a good candidate for laparoscopic appendectomy. Laparoscopic appendectomy may also be more difficult in patients who have had previous lower abdominal surgery. The elderly may also be at increased risk for complications with general anaesthesia combined with pneumoperitoneum. ...

Complications become more common the more the diagnosis and treatment are delayed. Complications include perforation of the intestines, gangrene (tissue death) of the intestines, peritonitis, and intrabdominal abscess.

Every case is different, but the following are averages: Back to top Narcotic pain medicine is necessary for 3-5 days after discharge. You should not lift anything heavier than 10lbs for 30 days. You may resume aerobic exercise in 14 - 21 days. You will probably need 2 - 4 weeks off of work.

Dr Huacuz don’t perform cholecystectomy, appendicectomy during the DS/BPD There is no evidence that DS leads to a higher incidence of appendicitis. Incidental appendectomy increases the postoperative infection rate so he does not routinely perform this procedures.