Appendicitis is a condition that causes inflammation in the appendix, which is a finger-shaped pouch on the lower right part of the abdomen. This is one of the most common causes of pain around this area. Nevertheless, in most cases, the discomfort starts around the navel before moving. If left untreated, the disorder would become severe and lead to many complications. Anyone may develop appendicitis, but it is more prevalent in people from 10 to 30 years old. In this post, we will take a look at 10 possible treatment options for appendicitis.
Laparoscopic Surgery and Open Appendectomy
Most acute cases of appendicitis can be treated by laparoscopic surgery. The main goal is to remove the appendix. During the procedure, the doctor will make 3 to 4 small incisions in the right lower portion of the abdomen. By removing the appendix, it may prevent the pain from recurring. It takes a few weeks until you recover fully. You need to reduce physical activity and take some prescribed medications. Some changes in lifestyle, exercise, and diet should also be done. This option is typically preferable to open surgery as it requires fewer painkillers, quicker recovery time, and smaller incisions. [1]
Laparoscopic surgery is not suitable for everyone. An open appendectomy is necessary when you have an abscess or when the appendix becomes ruptured and the infection is spread to other parts. This procedure can help clean your abdominal cavity. In this case, the surgeon needs to make a bigger incision than that in laparoscopic surgery. You might need to stay in the hospital for 1 or 2 days after the surgery. [2]
