An appendectomy is surgery to remove the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine in the lower right abdomen. It is most often performed to treat appendicitis, which means the appendix has become inflamed. Without prompt care, an inflamed appendix may rupture and cause a serious infection.

Think you may have appendicitis? Go to an emergency department right away. Do not wait for an office appointment or an online consultation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.

When is an appendectomy needed?

A clinician may recommend an appendectomy after evaluating your symptoms, examining your abdomen, and reviewing tests such as blood work and imaging. Appendectomy is a standard treatment for appendicitis and removes the affected appendix. Some carefully selected people with uncomplicated appendicitis may be offered antibiotics instead of immediate surgery. This choice depends on the findings and a discussion of the chance that symptoms could return or surgery could still be needed.

If the appendix has ruptured or an abscess has formed, treatment may also involve antibiotics, drainage of the abscess, or a different surgical plan. Your care team will recommend the approach that fits your condition.

Symptoms of appendicitis

Abdominal pain is the most common symptom. It may start near the belly button and move to the lower right side, worsen over several hours, or become more painful with movement or coughing. Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fever, or abdominal swelling can also occur. Symptoms do not always follow this pattern, so seek prompt medical evaluation if appendicitis is a possibility.

How is the appendix removed?

Appendectomy is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon may use a minimally invasive approach through several small abdominal incisions or an open approach through one larger incision. A robotic-assisted appendectomy is one type of minimally invasive surgery: the surgeon controls the instruments from a console and remains in control throughout the procedure. The robot does not operate on its own.

At ATX Robotic Surgery, we assess the extent of infection, your health, and the circumstances of your care before recommending an approach. Robotic assistance may be an option in some cases. The safest and most appropriate technique varies by patient; surgery may need to be performed with another technique or changed to an open operation if needed.

Recovery after appendectomy

Your recovery depends on whether the appendix ruptured, the type of surgery, and your overall health. Some people go home the same day or the next day after an uncomplicated minimally invasive appendectomy. A ruptured appendix or other complications may require a longer hospital stay and antibiotics.

Your care team will give you instructions for incision care, medicines, walking, lifting, bathing, driving, and follow-up. Gentle walking is usually encouraged as you recover. Wait to drive until your surgeon says it is safe and you are no longer taking medication that impairs your ability to drive. Call your surgical team for fever, worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, or increasing redness or drainage at an incision. Seek emergency care for severe symptoms or trouble breathing.

Why choose ATX Robotic Surgery?

Our surgeons offer individualized evaluation and minimally invasive surgical options, including robotic-assisted procedures when appropriate. We explain your diagnosis, the recommended treatment, and what to expect during recovery so you can make informed decisions about your care.

For questions about a diagnosed appendix condition or follow-up after surgery, contact ATX Robotic Surgery. For new or worsening symptoms that could be appendicitis, go directly to an emergency department.