How it may be discovered
Assessment may include an abdominal examination, blood tests, ultrasound or CT imaging depending on the presentation.
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Condition & cancer care
Appendicitis & Appendectomy
Appendicitis is a common surgical condition that often begins with abdominal pain and may require urgent treatment.
When surgery may be considered
Appendix removal is commonly performed through a minimally invasive approach when clinically appropriate.
Patient questions
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to common questions about appendicitis & appendectomy.
01What are the signs of appendicitis?
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Classic symptoms include pain that starts around the navel and moves to the lower right abdomen, loss of appetite, nausea, and low-grade fever. Pain often worsens with movement or coughing. Any suspected appendicitis needs prompt medical evaluation.
02Is appendicitis always an emergency?
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In most cases, yes. An inflamed appendix can progress to rupture, increasing the risk of infection spreading in the abdomen. Suspected appendicitis should be evaluated urgently.
03How is appendicitis treated?
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The standard treatment is laparoscopic appendectomy—keyhole removal of the appendix. In selected cases, appendicitis may initially be managed with antibiotics, but surgery remains the definitive treatment for most patients.
04Is appendix removal a big operation?
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Laparoscopic appendectomy is a common, generally low-risk procedure with a short hospital stay for uncomplicated cases. Recovery is longer if the appendix has ruptured before surgery.
05Can you live a normal life without an appendix?
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Yes. The appendix has no essential function in adults, and its removal does not affect digestion or long-term health.
Multidisciplinary care
Surgery is considered as part of the complete treatment plan.
Depending on the diagnosis, care may involve medical oncology, radiation oncology, gastroenterology, radiology, pathology and other specialties.
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