A burst appendix is a life-threatening emergency that requires surgery. At Somerset Surgical Associates, LLC, the skilled surgeons offer a minimally invasive appendectomy to remove an infected appendix before it ruptures. They take a laparoscopic approach when possible to remove your appendix through small incisions, so you can heal faster and with less pain. Call the office in Somerville, New Jersey, to learn more about appendectomy or book an appointment online today.

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What is an appendectomy?

An appendectomy is a surgical procedure to remove your appendix. This type of surgery is often an emergency procedure to treat appendicitis, which is inflammation in the appendix.

Your appendix is a small, tube-like pouch that attaches to your large intestine and sits on the lower right side of your abdomen. The function of the appendix isn’t well understood, but the organ may help you recover from intestinal inflammation and infections.

When you have appendicitis, it means there’s inflammation and swelling in your appendix. That can lead to the growth of bacteria inside the organ that triggers a buildup of pus. As a result, you can experience:

  • Pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Abdominal swelling

Without treatment, your appendix can burst and allow bacteria and toxins to leak into your abdominal cavity, which can be a life-threatening situation.

What happens during an appendectomy?

Somerset Surgical Associates, LLC, offers a minimally invasive laparoscopic appendectomy to remove your appendix without damaging nearby tissues.

The surgeon makes small incisions in your abdomen and inserts a narrow tube. Through the tube, they send carbon dioxide gas to inflate your abdomen and then use specialized instruments to tie off your appendix with stitches before removing it.

If you’re not a candidate for laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon can use traditional open techniques to remove your appendix. They make an incision in the lower right side of your abdomen to remove the organ.

The surgeon can also use open techniques to clean toxins from your abdominal cavity if your appendix bursts.

How long does it take to recover from an appendectomy?

After your appendectomy, you can expect to remain in recovery for a few hours before you can go home to rest. Your surgeon monitors your vital signs and ensures you recover fully from anesthesia before releasing you.

You may have some pain near your incisions that you can treat with medications. Your surgeon may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.

Many people fully recover from an appendectomy within four to six weeks. During this time, you should avoid high-impact exercise and strenuous activities, so your body can heal.

Call Somerset Surgical Associates, LLC, to find out if you’re a candidate for an appendectomy or book an appointment online today.