Appendicitis

Appendicitis is an inflammation at the beginning of the colon (appendix). It is often accompanied by severe abdominal pain. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is necessary to prevent complications. The solution is often an appendectomy.

What is the appendix?

The appendix is a small, finger-like sac located where the small intestine meets the large intestine. This pouch is located on the underside of the right side of the abdomen.

Symptoms

The symptoms below may occur:

  • Typical severe abdominal pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Bloated abdomen
  • Fever

Treatment

In acute appendicitis, a appendectomy is the best treatment. This is a procedure in which the appendix is removed. Appendectomy can be done through laparoscopy (keyhole surgery) or open surgery depending on the situation.

Laparoscopy (keyhole surgery)