In This Section Texas Health Southwest Fort Worth An
appendectomy is surgery to remove the appendix. See also:
Appendicitis The appendix is a small, finger-shaped organ
extending from the first part of the large intestine. It is
removed when it becomes inflamed or infected. A perforated
appendix can leak and infect the entire abdominal area, which
can be life-threatening. See: Peritonitis An appendectomy is
done under general anesthesia , which means you are asleep and
do not feel any pain during the surgery. The surgeon makes a
small cut in the lower right side of your belly area and removes
the appendix. The appendix can also be removed using minimally
invasive techniques. This is called a laparoscopic appendectomy.
It is performed with small incisions and a camera. If the
appendix ruptured or a pocket of infection (abscess ) formed,
your abdomen will be thoroughly washed out during surgery. A
small tube may be left in the belly area to help drain out
fluids or pus. Why the Procedure Is Performed: The sympt