LAPAROSCOPIC APPENDECTOMY
click here for a detailed diagram of the abdomen

DEFINITION - APPENDICITIS
Inflammation/infection of the appendix requiring surgical removal (Appendectomy).

DESCRIPTION - LAPAROSCOPIC APPENDECTOMY
The operation involves the removing of the appendix, using the laparoscopic technique.

DIAGNOSTIC LAPAROSCOPY FOR LOWER ABDOMINAL PAIN
The laparoscope is an excellent instrument for exploring a patient with lower abdominal pain where the diagnosis is not clear. This is particularly relevant in pain in female patients, where the origin of symptoms may be the gynaecological organs or the bowel/appendix.

ADVANTAGES OF THIS TECHNIQUE
- in patients with lower abdominal pain, a thorough inspection of their entire lower abdomen and pelvis is possible through "keyhole" incisions without the need for a long incision
- an accurate diagnosis can thus be made and the problem treated immediately without delay or deliberation
- a perforated appendix with an ABSCESS can be adequately drained, thoroughly irrigated and cleaned out
- generalized peritonitis with PUS can be thoroughly irrigated and the abdominal cavity cleaned with irrigation and suction

HOW TO MAKE THE DIAGNOSIS OF APPENDICITIS
Symptoms may include pain in the lower abdomen associated with:
- fever
- nausea and/or vomiting
- constipation or diarrhoea
- abdominal distention

DETAILS OF THE OPERATION
Anaesthetic: General Anaesthetic (usually)
Operation time: 20 - 90 minutes
Number of incisions: usually 3
Hospital stay: 1 - 3 days (usually)

RECTROCECAL APPENDIX (APPENDIX LYING BELOW THE COLON)
Can be adequately and safely removed without the need for a long incision.

POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS:
See general complications of laparoscopic surgery

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