What is the appendix?
The appendix is a close-ended narrow, tubular organ (shaped
like a worm). The appendix secretes mucus into the intestine.
It is also contains lymphatic tissue, which is a part
of the immune system. It is located on the right side
of the abdomen and is attached to the right colon.
Why perform an Appendectomy?
Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix. It is
thought to be caused by a blockage of stool or thick mucus
that hardens and becomes rock-like. It can also be caused
by swelling of the lymphatic tissue, resulting in blockage.
Bacteria which normally are found within the appendix
begin to attack the wall of the appendix, causing an infection.
The body then responds to the attack by mounting a counter-attack
on the bacteria. If the infection spread through the wall
of the appendix, the appendix can rupture. After rupture,
infection can spread throughout the abdomen; however,
it usually is confined to a small area surrounding the
appendix, forming a peri-appendiceal abscess. Appendicitis
causes severe pain in the right lower quadrant of the
abdomen. Surgical intervention and antibiotic therapy
may be necessary.
How is a Laparoscopic Appendectomy
performed?
Laparoscopic surgery uses a thin, telescope-like instrument
called a laparoscope which is inserted through a small
incision in the umbilicus. The laparoscope is connected
to a tiny video camera which projects a video image of
the operative site onto video monitors in the operating
room. The abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide, a gas,
to allow your surgeon a better view of the operative area.
A second and third incision will be made above the pubic
bone and in the left lower abdomen. Instruments are inserted
through these incisions. These instruments dissect the
appendix away from the right colon and elevate it toward
the abdominal wall. The appendix is then removed with
a surgical stapler. If the appendix has ruptured at the
time of surgery, removal is followed by irrigation of
the abdominal cavity and drain placement.
Why Laparoscopic?
___Three tiny scars instead
of one large abdominal scar.
___Shorter hospital stay.
__
Reduced post-operative pain.
___Shorter recovery time
and quicker return to daily activities, including work.
What can I expect after surgery?
It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions after
surgery. Although many people are discharged to home the
next day, you may require several days of hospitalization
for intravenous antibiotics and drain maintenance if your
appendix ruptured.
To make
an appointment with Dr. Rosser, please call 212-420-4337.
