Appendix
             The appendix is a small, finger-shaped sac part of large intestine. The appendix produces a bacteria destroying protein called immunoglobulins which help fight infection in the body. Its function, however, is not essential. People who have had appendectomies do not have an increased risk toward infection. Other organs in the body take over this function once the appendix has been removed.

Laparoscopic appendectomy
             Appendicitis is one of the very common surgical procedures. In most laparoscopic appendectomies, surgeons operate through 3 small incisions (each ¼ to ½ inch) while watching an enlarged image of the patient’s internal organs on a television monitor. In some cases, one of the small openings may be lengthened to 2 or 3 inches to complete the procedure.

Advantages of laparoscopic appendectomy
Results may vary depending upon the type of procedure and patient’s overall condition. Common advantages are:
Less postoperative pain
May shorten hospital stay
May result in a quicker return to bowel function
Quicker return to normal activity
Better cosmetic results
You and laparoscopic appendectomy
             Although laparoscopic appendectomy has many benefits, it may not be appropriate for some patients. Early, non-ruptured appendicitis usually can be removed laparoscopically. Laparoscopic appendectomy is more difficult to perform if there is advanced infection or the appendix has ruptured. A traditional, open procedure using a larger incision may be required to safely remove the infected appendix in these patients.

Procedure
             The words “laparoscopic” and “open” appendectomy describes the techniques a surgeon uses to gain access to the internal surgery site.
Most laparoscopic appendectomies start the same way. Using a cannula (a narrow tube-like instrument), the surgeon enters the abdomen. A laparoscope (a tiny telescope connected to a video camera) is inserted through a cannula, giving the surgeon a magnified view of the patient’s internal organs on a television monitor. Several other cannulas are inserted to allow the surgeon to work inside and remove the appendix. The entire procedure may be completed through the cannulas or by lengthening one of the small cannula incisions. A drain may be placed during the procedure. This will be removed before you leave the hospital.

Recourse if Laparoscopic route fails
             In a small number of patients the laparoscopic method is not feasible because of the inability to visualize or handle the organs effectively. When the surgeon feels that it is safest to convert the laparoscopic procedure to an open one, this is not a complication, but rather sound surgical judgment. Factors that may increase the possibility of converting to the "open" procedure may include:
Extensive infection and/or abscess
A perforated appendix
Obesity
A history of prior abdominal surgery causing dense scar tissue
Inability to visualize organs
Bleeding problems during the operation
             The decision to perform the open procedure is a judgment decision made by your surgeon either before or during the actual operation. The decision to convert to an open procedure is strictly based on patient safety.

Post operative period
             After the operation, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions. Although many people feel better in just a few days, remember that your body needs time to heal.
You are encouraged to be out of bed the day after surgery and to walk. This will help diminish the risk of blood clots in your legs and of soreness in your muscles.
You will probably be able to get back to most of your normal activities in one to two weeks time. These activities include showering, driving, walking up stairs, working and engaging in sexual intercourse.
If you have prolonged soreness or are getting no relief from the prescribed pain medication, you should notify your surgeon.
You should call your surgeon and schedule a follow up appointment for about 1-2 weeks following your operation.

Possible copmlications
             As with any operation, there are risks including the risk of complications. However, the risk of one of these complications occurring is no higher than if the operation was done with the open technique.
Bleeding
Infection
Removal of a normal appendix
A leak at the edge of the colon where the appendix was removed
Injury to adjacent organs such as the small intestine, ureter, or bladder.
Blood clot to the lungs

It is important for you to recognize the early signs of possible complications. Contact your surgeon if you have severe abdominal pain, fever, chills or rectal bleeding.

Inform doctor if -
Be sure to call your physician or surgeon if you develop any of the following:
Persistent fever over 101 degrees F (39 C)
Bleeding
Increasing abdominal swelling
Pain that is not relieved by your medications
Persistent nausea or vomiting
Chills
Persistent cough or shortness of breath
Purulent drainage (pus) from any incision
Redness surrounding any of your incisions that is worsening or getting bigger
You are unable to eat or drink liquids