Appendectomy
Emergency removal of an inflamed appendix, most often performed laparoscopically.
Stay
Inpatient
Duration
About 30-60 minutes
Anaesthesia
General
About Appendectomy
An appendectomy removes an inflamed appendix, usually as an emergency. It is most often performed laparoscopically through small incisions. Our 24×7 emergency department and modular theatres mean surgery can proceed without waiting for a scheduled list.
Before you read on
Everything here is general information about appendectomy. Whether it suits you, and how it would be done in your case, is a decision for your doctor after examining you.
Your consultant's instructions always take precedence over anything written on this page.
When is it recommended?
Situations in which a doctor may suggest appendectomy.
- Acute appendicitis confirmed on examination and imaging
- Abdominal pain moving to the lower right side with fever
Procedure details
The usual sequence, from first consultation through to follow-up.
Emergency assessment
Examination, blood tests and a scan confirm appendicitis in the emergency department.
Surgery
The appendix is removed, usually through small incisions under general anaesthesia.
Recovery
You are monitored on the ward, with fluids and antibiotics as required.
Discharge and review
A follow-up appointment checks wound healing and recovery.
How to prepare
What to sort out before you come in.
- Usually an emergency - bloods and a scan confirm the diagnosis
- You will be kept nil by mouth and given fluids and antibiotics
- Consent and an anaesthetic review happen on admission
- Tell the team about medication, allergies and your last meal
Recovery
What to expect afterwards, and roughly when.
- Most patients go home within one to two days
- Eating restarts gradually once the bowel settles
- Avoid heavy lifting for two to four weeks
- The wounds are reviewed at your follow-up appointment
Why choose Humayun?
What you can expect from us, whichever department you come in through.
Experienced specialists
Consultants who perform these procedures routinely, not occasionally.
Everything on one campus
Theatres, critical care, diagnostics and pharmacy in the same building, so care is not split across sites.
Safety you can check
Infection control, consent and clinical protocols audited against national accreditation standards.
In-house diagnostics
Laboratory and imaging on site, so results reach your doctor the same day rather than after a referral.
Clear about cost
You are told what a treatment involves and what it is likely to cost before you consent to it.
Support around the clock
A 24×7 emergency department and critical care units, whatever time you need us.
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