SURGEON
Laparoscopic Appendectomy: A Modern Approach to Treating Appendicitis
What is the appendix?
Anatomy and Physiology
The appendix is a small, tube-like organ attached to the large intestine. Although the exact function of the appendix is still a subject of research, we know that an inflamed appendix, known as appendicitis, can be safely removed without long-term health consequences.
What is an Appendectomy?
An appendectomy is a surgical intervention to remove the appendix, which is the definitive treatment for appendicitis. If not treated in time, an inflamed appendix can burst, leading to serious complications.
Open or Laparoscopic Appendectomy
While traditional open appendectomy involves one large incision, the laparoscopic method uses several small incisions, providing a minimally invasive procedure.
Explanation of the Laparoscopic Procedure
Under general anesthesia, the abdominal cavity is inflated with carbon dioxide, and through tiny incisions, using ports, a video camera is introduced for visualization and special instruments are used to perform the operation inside the abdominal cavity. This ensures precise and controlled removal of the appendix.
Advantages of Laparoscopic Surgery
Although rare, complications can include bleeding, infection, hernias, thrombosis, and unintentional damage to nearby organs. Severe inflammation can also lead to the formation of an abscess, which will require additional treatment.
Anatomy and Physiology
The appendix is a small, tube-like organ attached to the large intestine. Although the exact function of the appendix is still a subject of research, we know that an inflamed appendix, known as appendicitis, can be safely removed without long-term health consequences.
What is an Appendectomy?
An appendectomy is a surgical intervention to remove the appendix, which is the definitive treatment for appendicitis. If not treated in time, an inflamed appendix can burst, leading to serious complications.
Open or Laparoscopic Appendectomy
While traditional open appendectomy involves one large incision, the laparoscopic method uses several small incisions, providing a minimally invasive procedure.
Explanation of the Laparoscopic Procedure
Under general anesthesia, the abdominal cavity is inflated with carbon dioxide, and through tiny incisions, using ports, a video camera is introduced for visualization and special instruments are used to perform the operation inside the abdominal cavity. This ensures precise and controlled removal of the appendix.
Advantages of Laparoscopic Surgery
- Reduction of Pain and Scars: Thanks to small incisions, patients experience less discomfort and improved cosmetic outcomes.
- Accelerated Hospital Discharge: The minimally invasive nature of the surgery allows for a shorter hospital stay.
- Quick Return to Daily Life: Patients recover faster, resuming normal activities sooner than after open surgery.
Although rare, complications can include bleeding, infection, hernias, thrombosis, and unintentional damage to nearby organs. Severe inflammation can also lead to the formation of an abscess, which will require additional treatment.