A minimally invasive surgical technique designed to eliminate the inflamed or infected appendix, a narrow, finger-like pouch situated at the juncture of the small and large intestines, usually caused by appendicitis.
Indications
Laparoscopic appendectomy is suitable for most cases of uncomplicated appendicitis. In certain situations, such as severe inflammation or perforation, open surgery may be necessary for adequate visualization and control of the surgical site.
Patient Evaluation:
- Physical examination
- Medical history review
- Imaging tests
Procedure
- Anesthesia: To ensure the patient is not in conscious and pain-free during the surgery.
- Incisions: Typically, three to four small incisions are made in the abdomen.
- Trocar Placement: Trocars (hollow tubes) are inserted through the incisions to provide access for the surgical instruments and camera.
- Visualization: A laparoscope (a thin, lighted tube with a camera) is inserted through one of the trocars to provide a magnified view of the abdominal cavity on a monitor.
- Dissection: Surgical instruments, such as graspers and scissors, are used to dissect and mobilize the appendix from surrounding tissues.
- Ligation: The base of the appendix is sealed off using surgical clips, staplers, or ties to prevent bleeding.
- Extraction: Once the appendix is freed, it is carefully placed in a specimen retrieval bag and removed through one of the incisions.
- Closure: Any bleeding is controlled, and the incisions are closed with sutures or surgical glue. Sometimes, absorbable sutures are used, eliminating the need for suture removal later.
- Dressing: Sterile dressings are applied to the incisions to promote healing and prevent infection.
Postoperative Care
- The patient is monitored closely
- Pain Management
- Initially, the patient may start with clear liquids and gradually advance to solid foods as tolerated.
- Early mobilization is encouraged to prevent complications such as blood clots and promote faster recovery.
Potential Complications
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Postoperative pain
- Scar formation
Surgical approach for removing an inflamed or infected appendix due to its minimally invasive nature, reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and quick recovery time compared to traditional open surgery. Its efficacy, coupled with advancements in surgical techniques and technology, underscores its role as a standard of care in the management of appendicitis, offering patients a safer and more efficient treatment option.
