Appendix Surgery in Guntur - Leading Gastro Surgeon

What is the Appendix?

The appendix is a small, tube-shaped organ located in the lower right abdomen, connected to the large intestine. It is about 4 to 6 inches long and 0.5 inches in diameter. Its exact function is not entirely clear, but it may play a role in the immune system, particularly in early life.

How Does the Appendix Work?

• Immune Function:
  • The appendix contains lymphoid tissue involved in the immune response and may help the body recognize and fight infections, especially during childhood.
• Gut Flora:
  • It may help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria by acting as a reservoir for beneficial bacteria. These bacteria can repopulate the gut after gastrointestinal illness.
• No Essential Function:
  • While the appendix has roles in immunity and gut flora, it is not essential for survival. Many people live healthy lives after appendix removal.

Symptoms of Appendix Problems

• Abdominal Pain: Pain often starts around the belly button and moves to the lower right abdomen. It may be sharp and worsen with movement or pressure.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Frequently accompanies abdominal pain.
• Loss of Appetite: Common in appendicitis.
• Fever: Mild to moderate fever may be present.
• Constipation or Diarrhea: Changes in bowel habits can occur with appendiceal inflammation.
• Swelling or Tenderness: In the lower right side of the abdomen.

Causes of Appendix Problems

• Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, often caused by:
  • Blockage: A blockage in the appendix, usually by stool, a foreign body, or cancer, can lead to inflammation and infection.
  • Infection: Bacterial infections can cause appendicitis.
  • Other Conditions: Such as inflammatory bowel disease or trauma.
• Appendiceal Abscess: A localized collection of pus around the appendix due to infection.
• Appendiceal Tumors: Rare tumors in the appendix, including:
  • Carcinoid Tumors: Usually slow-growing and often found incidentally.
  • Mucinous Cystadenomas: Tumors that can produce mucus.
• Appendiceal Hyperplasia: Benign enlargement of the appendix lining, often seen in conditions like Crohn’s disease.

Treatment Options

• Medications:
  • Antibiotics: Used to treat infections associated with appendicitis or appendiceal abscesses.
  • Pain Relievers: To manage pain associated with appendicitis.
• Surgical Intervention:
  • Appendectomy: The surgical removal of the appendix, which is the standard treatment for appendicitis. It can be performed using:
    • Open Surgery: A larger incision is made in the lower right abdomen.
    • Laparoscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive surgery using small incisions and a camera.
• Supportive Care:
  • Hydration and Nutrition: Managing symptoms and supporting recovery post-surgery.
  • Antibiotics: Sometimes given pre-operatively to reduce infection risk.