A surgical procedure which involves the removal of an inflamed appendix.

This procedure may be performed through a conventional abdominal incision or using a laparoscope. In both approaches the patient is asleep under general anaesthesia. Convalescence in the hospital is 1 to 3 days. Typically much shorter if performed laparoscopically. Rupture of the appendix can lengthen recovery time considerably.

See: appendicitis.

Drugs used to treat Appendectomy