Appendicitis in Chennai

What Happens if Appendicitis Is Left Untreated?

If appendicitis is not treated in time, it can become a life-threatening condition. Immediate appendectomy  is usually recommended to avoid serious health risks. Here is what can happen if acute appendicitis treatment is delayed:

• The inflamed appendix continues to swell and may lose its blood supply.
• Without blood flow, the tissue begins to die, weakening the appendix wall.
• A hole or tear can form, leading to the rupture of the appendix.
• When this happens, bacteria and pus spill into the abdominal cavity (peritoneum), which houses vital organs like the liver, stomach, and intestines.
• This can cause a serious and potentially life-threatening infection known as peritonitis.
• In severe cases, a pocket of pus called an abscess may also form, requiring additional drainage procedures before an appendectomy can be safely performed.
• These complications result in longer hospital stays, a more complicated appendectomy recovery time, and a higher risk of further problems.

Untreated appendicitis can also:

• Lead to widespread infection in the blood (sepsis)
• Require a more invasive open appendectomy procedure instead of laparoscopic appendectomy
• Increase the chances of post-surgery complications
• Delay recovery and affect overall health, especially in high-risk patients like pregnant women (appendectomy in pregnancy)

Are you going through any of these symptoms?

Pain initiating from the belly button and moving towards the lower right side of the abdomen

Indigestion or Constipation

Loss of appetite

Nausea and vomiting

Swollen abdomen

Inability to pass gas

Diarrhea or Fever

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What Happens Before Appendix Removal (Appendectomy)?

If you are scheduled for appendectomy, here is what usually happens before the procedure:

• Diagnosis confirmation: Once appendicitis is diagnosed, surgery is often recommended within 24 hours to avoid complications like a burst appendix.
• IV-line insertion: A vein in your arm will be used to insert an intravenous (IV) line. Through this, you’ll receive fluids and antibiotics to manage infection and reduce the risk of complications.
• Antibiotic therapy: You will start antibiotics before the appendectomy procedure and continue them afterwards, depending on the severity of the infection.
• Medical evaluation: Your appendectomy doctor will review your medical history, including:
  • Current medications
  • Allergies
  • Existing health conditions
• Diagnostic tests: Blood tests and imaging scans (like an ultrasound or CT scan) may be done to check the severity of appendicitis and plan the surgery properly.
• Informed consent: Your surgeon will explain:
  • The reason for appendectomy
  • The surgery type (either laparoscopic appendectomy or open appendectomy procedure)
• Fasting: You will be advised not to eat or drink anything for around 6–8 hours before the operation. Fluids and medications will still be given through your IV.
• You will receive general anaesthesia for appendectomy, so you remain asleep and pain-free during the procedure.

What Happens During an Appendectomy?

Once your diagnosis is confirmed, you will undergo appendectomy to safely remove your inflamed appendix. The steps can vary depending on the type of surgery be it laparoscopic or open appendectomy.

Laparoscopic Appendectomy (Minimally Invasive Surgery) 

Here is the laparoscopic appendectomy step by step:

• Small incisions (usually 1-3) are made near your belly button. These are the laparoscopic appendectomy incision sites.
• A small port is placed into one incision, followed by a cannula (hollow tube).
• Carbon dioxide gas is pumped in to gently inflate your abdomen and give the surgeon a clearer view.
• A thin tube with a camera, called a laparoscope, is inserted to guide the surgery.
• Using specialised tools, the surgeon:
  • Locates the appendix
  • Ties it off with sutures
  • Removes it carefully from your body (appendix removal)
• The instruments are withdrawn and the small cuts are stitched closed.

Note: In rare cases, if the appendix has ruptured or infection is widespread, the surgeon may switch to an open appendectomy procedure.

Open Appendectomy

This method may be used if:

• The appendix has burst
• Infection has spread in the abdominal cavity
• Laparoscopic access isn’t suitable (e.g. in some appendectomy in pregnancy cases)

Here is what happens during an open surgery:

• A single, larger incision (about 3 inches) is made in the lower right side of the abdomen.
• The appendix is located and safely detached from the colon.
• If there is any pus or fluid due to infection, it is drained.
• The abdominal area is rinsed with sterile solution.
• The appendix is tied off and removed.
• Internal tissues are repositioned, and the incision is closed with sutures.
• If needed, a temporary drainage tube may be left to prevent fluid build-up after surgery.

What Happens After Appendix Removal (Appendectomy)?

After your appendectomy, the recovery process depends on the type of procedure performed and whether any complications were present. Here is what to expect following appendix removal:

If You Had a Laparoscopic Appendectomy (Minimally Invasive):

• You may be discharged the same day if there are no complications.
• A friend or family member must drive you home, as the anaesthesia for appendectomy will still be wearing off.
• Mild pain or discomfort around the laparoscopic appendectomy incision sites is common, which can be managed with prescribed medications.
• You will be advised to rest and avoid heavy activities for a few days.
• The appendectomy recovery time is usually faster with this method. Most people return to normal activities within 1-3 weeks.

If You Had an Open Appendectomy or Ruptured Appendix:

• You may need to stay in the hospital for a few more days.
• Your doctor will continue IV antibiotics to manage or prevent infection.
• If a drainage tube was placed during surgery, it will usually be removed before you are discharged.
• You might need more time to fully recover, usually around 2-4 weeks.

Benefits of Appendix Removal Surgery (Appendectomy)

Among the two main types of appendectomy, laparoscopic and open surgery, most patients and surgeons prefer the laparoscopic appendectomy due to its many advantages. Here are the key benefits of appendix removal:

• Immediate Relief from Symptoms – Surgery removes the inflamed appendix, providing instant relief from the pain and discomfort caused by appendicitis.

• Prevents Life-Threatening Complications – Timely appendix removal prevents the risk of rupture, peritonitis (infection of the abdominal lining), and abscess formation.

• Reduced Risk of Infection – Smaller incisions lower the chance of wound infections compared to traditional surgery.

• Faster Recovery Time – Most patients undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy are discharged on the same day and resume normal activities sooner.

• Less Pain After Surgery – Since the incisions are small, there is minimal post-operative pain, making recovery more comfortable.

• Minimal Scarring – The scars from a laparoscopic appendectomy are smaller and less noticeable than those from an open procedure.

• Lower Blood Loss – The precision and smaller incisions in laparoscopic appendectomy reduce the risk of bleeding during surgery.

• Fewer Restrictions Post-Surgery – Patients can return to light physical activities within a few days under the supervision of their doctor.

• Safe Use of Anaesthesia – The anaesthesia for appendectomy is safe and well-managed, especially in planned, non-emergency surgeries.

• Permanent Solution – Once the appendix is removed, there is no risk of developing appendicitis again, eliminating the need for future acute appendicitis treatment.

Dos and Don’ts After Appendectomy

Following proper post-surgery instructions can help reduce the appendectomy recovery time and avoid potential appendectomy risks like infection or complications. Here are some important dos and don’ts to keep in mind after appendix removal surgery:

Dos after Appendectomy:

• Keep Your Incisions Clean and Dry

Proper care of your laparoscopic appendectomy incision sites or open surgery wound helps prevent infection. Follow your surgeon’s advice on how to clean the area.

• Take Prescribed Medications Only

Always follow your appendectomy doctor’s instructions when taking painkillers or antibiotics. Only use medicines prescribed for your recovery.

• Start With Light Meals

After the appendectomy procedure, your digestion may be slow. Begin with soft or bland foods and gradually return to your normal diet as advised.

• Move Around Regularly

Gentle movement, such as walking, improves blood circulation, reduces the risk of blood clots, and helps your bowels return to normal. Do not remain completely still for long periods.

• Rest When You Need It

Your body needs time to heal. Listen to your body and rest as needed during the early stages of acute appendectomy recovery.

• Follow Up with Your Surgeon

Keep all follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and manage any issues early.

Don’ts After Appendectomy:

• Do not Strain Your Abdomen

Avoid lifting heavy objects, climbing stairs too often, or engaging in intense activity that could stress your abdominal muscles, especially after open appendectomy.

• Do not Bathe or Swim Too Soon

Until your stitches dissolve or are removed, avoid swimming or taking baths. Stick to sponge baths or quick showers if cleared by your doctor.

• Do not Skip Your Medications

Skipping antibiotics or pain relief medications can slow down healing or increase the risk of infection.

• Do not Eat Heavy or Spicy Foods Immediately

Let your digestive system ease back into its normal routine. Eating heavy or greasy food too soon may lead to nausea or bloating.

• Do not Ignore Warning Signs

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

• Fever or chills
• Redness, swelling, or pus at the incision site
• Severe pain not relieved by medication
• Vomiting or constipation lasting more than a couple of days