Appendectomy
Appendectomy is the surgical removal of the appendix, a little finger-like that extends from the lower end of the cecum. The exact function of the appendix in human beings is unknown. Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix. This usually occurs as a result of blockage, which attracts microbes and causes an infection. An enlarged appendix is best removed surgically because if neglected, it can burst and the infection can spread into the abdominal cavity. Besides, leakage of the fecal matter into the abdominal cavity will trigger peritonitis, a condition that can even threaten life.
If the symptoms of appendicitis develop suddenly, it is treated as a medical emergency and immediate surgery is advisable. The symptoms of appendicitis include nausea, vomiting, high fever, reduced appetite, abdominal pain (located in the right lower abdominal area), rapid breathing, and an increased pulse rate. If not treated in time, the condition can prove to be fatal. Appendicitis is clinically diagnosed by palpating the abdomen and doing a digital examination of the rectum. The white blood cell (WBC) count usually indicates the severity of the infection.
An ultrasonography of the abdomen may also help to clinch the diagnosis. Additional investigations may be required to rule out other conditions that may give rise to symptoms that resemble those of appendicitis. In urinalysis, the patient's urine is examined under a microscope to detect bacteria, red blood cells, and pus cells. An abdominal X-ray will be helpful in detecting a fecolith (a calcified, pea-sized, hard piece of stool that blocks the opening of the appendix).
In a barium enema, a barium preparation is inserted through the anus into the colon to fill it up; and then, an X-ray of the abdomen is done to look for the spread of the preparation in the appendix. A CT scan may be more useful in detecting abscesses in and around the appendix. Laparoscopy, a procedure in which a tiny opening is made in the abdominal wall and a fiber tube containing a camera is inserted through it, is used to directly view the appendix and the other pelvic organs. This is done under general anesthetia in an operation theatre.
Appendectomy is usually performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small cut in the right lower abdominal area. The appendix is removed through this opening. In case of a ruptured appendix, the entire abdominal cavity is washed during surgery and a small tube is left behind in the abdomen to drain any fluid and pus following the operation. The patient generally recovers quickly after appendectomy and is discharged from the hospital within about 3 days post-operatively. A person can resume normal activities in a matter of 2 to 3 weeks. Patients who had a ruptured appendix or abscess take longer to heal.
A patient may suffer from the adverse reactions of the anesthetic agent used and could experience breathing problems. Excessive bleeding may occur during surgery in some cases. Infections following surgery may prolong one's stay in the hospital. Such infections are usually managed by antibiotics. It is therefore not advisable to try and look for home remedies for appendicitis as these could only lead to delay in treatment and complicate matters. Avoid enemas, heating pads, and laxatives to try and get relief from distressing symptoms. The removal of the appendix goes not give rise to any problem in the future as it is a vestigeal organ, i.e., it is apparently of no demonstrable use.
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