An appendectomy is an emergency surgical procedure to remove an inflamed or infected appendix, a condition known as appendicitis. Without surgery, the appendix can rupture, spilling infection into the bloodstream and abdomen, which can be life-threatening. There is no alternative treatment; surgery is considered the only way to treat appendicitis.
Appendectomy
By Jennifer Heisler, RN, About.com
Updated: January 04, 2009
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
Prev
- What is an Appendectomy?
- Preparing for Surgery
- Anesthesia For an Appendectomy
- The Procedure
- Recovering After Appendectomy Surgery
- Going Home
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Before You Have SurgeryThe Risks of SurgeryRecovering From Surgery
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