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 t
