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Laparoscopic Appendectomy
When an
appendix 
is removed
laparoscopically, 3 or 4 incisions, each
0.25 in. (0.6 cm) to
0.5 in. (1.3 cm) long, are made
in the abdomen. A surgeon inserts a viewing device (laparoscope) into one
incision. The laparoscope is attached outside the body to a video monitor,
allowing the surgeon to see inside the abdomen. Surgical instruments are
inserted into the other incisions to remove the appendix.
General anesthetic is required for laparoscopic appendectomy. The procedure generally lasts 2 hours or less.
With laparoscopic appendectomy:1
- Recovery usually is faster and less painful than after traditional open surgery.
- You may spend less time in the hospital.
- You may spend less time away from work and other activities.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: April 5, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine | |
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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