An appendectomy is a surgical operation in which the vermiform appendix (a portion of the intestine) is removed. Appendectomy is normally performed as an urgent or emergency procedure to treat acute appendicitis.Appendectomy may be performed laparoscopically (as minimally invasive surgery) or as an open operation.

• In a laparoscopic appendectomy, small incisions (cuts) are made in your abdomen. Caregivers will insert special tools and a laparoscope through these incisions to do the surgery. A laparoscope is a long metal tube with a light and tiny video camera on the end. This gives caregivers a clear view of the abdominal area while watching the images on a monitor. During this surgery, your appendix will be removed, and the inside of your abdomen cleaned to avoid infection. With a laparoscopic appendectomy, appendicitis may be cured, and the symptoms it causes relieved.