If you have never been to hospital before, let alone had to endure a surgical procedure, then you may be a little worried if you have been told that you have an operable condition. In this case, you may have appendicitis, which is a very common infection, and which will typically require treatment as soon as possible. How invasive is this type of surgery, and can you take advantage of a simpler approach instead?
Appendicitis
When you get acute appendicitis, a tiny portion of tissue which is attached to the large intestines becomes infected. This can result in significant pain, high-grade fever, nausea and a lack of appetite.
Appendicitis will typically affect younger people, and when it has been diagnosed, it must be treated as quickly as possible to avoid any complications. If not treated, the appendix may burst, spreading infection to other nearby and crucial organs, like the liver or pancreas.
Causes
There are many potential causes, including infection, inflammation of the bowel and even parasites, but once the appendix becomes blocked, it will typically need to be removed as soon as possible.
Keyhole Approach
These days, however, the patient may be able to take advantage of a much less invasive procedure called the laparoscopic technique. This is also known as "keyhole" surgery and takes a lot less time than the traditional method. Recovery time is typically lower, there is less scarring after the event, and the appendix can be removed effectively.
Understanding the Procedure
Before you can present for a keyhole procedure, you will typically have to go through a period of fasting for up to 12 hours. This is due to the use of general anaesthesia — to ensure that you do not get any nausea during the procedure.
Usually, the operation is performed under a general anaesthetic, and the surgical instruments will be inserted through a small incision. A tiny amount of carbon dioxide is sent down the tube to inflate the abdomen so that the doctor can see more clearly through the attached camera.
Once the appendix has been removed, the incision is stitched back up before being dressed. The patient may have to spend a few hours in the hospital immediately thereafter but will typically be allowed to go home on the same day.
Going Forward
These procedures are very successful, and complications are rare. Consequently, you should proceed as soon as possible if a surgeon has advised you to do so.
