Appendix Removal
Am I a candidate?The appendix is a small organ located where the large and small intestines meet in the lower right part of your abdomen. Appendix removal, or an appendectomy, is an emergency surgery performed when a person develops appendicitis, an infection.
Typical symptoms of appendicitis include pain and tenderness radiating from the lower right section of the abdomen. Additional symptoms can include fever, appetite loss, and nausea. The Dr. Susan Seman Solution is here to support our patients with appendix removal in West Bloomfield Township.
Details
What it Treats
Appendicitis
Types of Surgery
Laparoscopic
Robotic
Open
Procedure Length
45 minutes to 1 hour
Recovery
You recovery will depend on which type of surgery you had for your appendix removal in West Bloomfield Township. Laparoscopic patients are usually able to return to normal routines in 1 to 3 weeks, while open appendectomy patients might need 2 to 4 weeks to recover.
How Appendix Removal Works
We offer 3 different options for appendix removal in West Bloomfield Township at the Dr. Susan Seman Solution: laparoscopic, robotic, and open.
01
Open
An open appendectomy involves a larger incision than a laparoscopic procedure. This is the standard method for an appendectomy and the appendix is simply removed through the incision. If your appendix has burst or the infection has spread, you will likely need an open appendectomy.
02
Laparoscopic
A laparoscopic appendectomy is less invasive than a traditional open procedure. Instead of one large incision, 1 to 3 smaller ones are made. A long thin tube called a laparoscope is inserted through one of the incisions. The laparoscope has a video camera and surgical tools attached.
Dr. Seman then uses a TV monitor to guide the tools and remove your appendix through one of the incisions. It's possible during a laparoscopic procedure that your doctor may decide to proceed with an open appendectomy.
03
Robotic
The robotic appendectomy is similar to a laparoscopic procedure, but with robot assistance. Both the laparoscopic and robotic appendectomies risk fewer complications and have an easier recovery period after surgery.
What is recovery like after having an appendix removal in West Bloomfield Township?
Recovery can look different for each patient depending on their individual body and healing process. Dr. Seman will provide post-operative instruction for you. Generally, you can follow these guidelines:
- Rest and get enough sleep.
- Try to walk each day, a little more each day to boost blood flow.
- Make sure you stay hydrated.
- You may want to take a daily fiber supplement.
- Take any medication as directed.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for at least 2 weeks or until cleared by your doctor.
Frequently asked questions about appendix removal in West Bloomfield Township
What causes appendicitis and is it preventable?
Appendicitis is caused by a blockage or infection. We don't have evidence that appendicitis is preventable. It's important to get to a doctor as soon as symptoms start.
How is appendicitis diagnosed?
There are multiple ways to diagnose appendicitis: a physical exam, a urine test (to rule out a UTI), blood tests, CT scans, or an ultrasound.
Will I need to stay in the hospital overnight?
Whether you need to stay overnight depends on the the extent of your procedure. You can usually return home following a laparoscopic appendectomy.
Do I need to change my diet after?
The human body can live without the appendix and most people experience no complications after an appendectomy. You shouldn't need to change your diet long-term after your surgery.