What you need to know about:

Laparoscopic Appendectomy

Fast Fact

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Average Cost:

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Recovery Period:

5-7 days in hospital

Permanence:

Permanent

177

Doctors

Time it takes:

1 hour

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Anesthetize:

General Anesthesia

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Overview of

Laparoscopic Appendectomy

in Thailand

A laparoscopic appendectomy is a minimally invasive procedure to remove the inflamed appendix, also more commonly known as appendicitis. The appendix is a thin tube that is about four inches long and is located at the junction of the small intestine and the large intestine. The function of the appendix is unknown, but one theory is that it serves as a storehouse for good bacteria. Appendicitis is when the appendix becomes inflamed and needs to be removed or it can rupture, spilling infectious material into the abdominal cavity. This may occur as soon as 48 to 72 hours after symptoms begin. Appendicitis is considered an emergency and anyone with symptoms needs to see a doctor immediately.

Goals of

Laparoscopic Appendectomy

To remove the infected appendix before it bursts and spreads the infection to the entire abdominal space.

Price of

Laparoscopic Appendectomy

Average Cost

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Price Range

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Pros and cons of

Laparoscopic Appendectomy

Pros

In comparison with the open appendectomy, the laparoscopic method results in less postoperative pain, a shorter hospital stay, quicker return to bowel function, quicker return to normal activity, and produces better cosmetic results. While the procedure may have many benefits, it is not appropriate for all patients. An appendix that is severely infected or has ruptured may not be removed this way and will require an open appendectomy.

Cons

The procedure costs more than an open surgery. In addition, operating time will be at least 20 - 30 minutes longer due to the preparations needed for a laparoscopic approach.

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How it works:

Laparoscopic Appendectomy

In a laparoscopic appendectomy three small incisions (measuring ¼ to ½ inch) will be made on the abdomen. A narrow tube-like instrument called a trocar will be inserted through the incision and a laparoscope, a tiny telescope connected to a video camera, will be inserted through the cannula. This gives the surgeon a magnified view of the patient’s internal organs on a television monitor. Two to three other cannulas are inserted to allow the surgeon to remove the appendix.

Preparation before

Laparoscopic Appendectomy

Pre - treatment

A laparoscopic appendectomy is performed under general anesthesia so a complete physical examination is required before surgery. The patient may have to undergo blood tests and other diagnostic tests as well. The patient must avoid all food and water for at least six hours before the procedure. Certain medications may have to be discontinued before surgery, especially anticoagulants and blood thinners like aspirin. The patient should inform the doctor of all medications, supplements, and herbal supplements they are regularly taking. Inform the doctor of any allergies to medication, latex or anesthesia, and of any history of bleeding disorders. If the patient suspects that they might be pregnant, inform the doctor immediately.

Recovery after

Laparoscopic Appendectomy

Post - treatment

After the procedure, it is important to follow the doctor’s instructions. Although most patients feel almost normal within a few days, it is important to remember that the body needs time to heal. Patients are encouraged to get out of bed the day after surgery and walk. This will prevent blood clots and alleviate any pain the patient is experiencing in their legs. Patients will probably be able to get back to normal activities in one to two weeks, including showering, driving, walking upstairs, working and engaging in sexual intercourse. If the patient experiences prolonged soreness or are getting no relief from the prescribed pain medication, please notify the doctor.

Risks & side effects

As the procedure is performed under general anesthesia, there are risks associated with that. Other possible complications from the surgery include: Bleeding Infection A leak at the edge of the colon where the appendix was removed Injury to adjacent organs such as the small intestine, ureter, or bladder. Blood clot to the lungs Consult the doctor immediately if the patient experiences any of the following: Persistent fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit (39 degrees Celsius) Bleeding Increasing abdominal swelling Pain that is not relieved by medication Persistent nausea or vomiting Chills Persistent cough or shortness of breath Purulent drainage (pus) from any incision Redness surrounding any of the incisions that is worsening or getting bigger Inability to eat or drink

FAQs:

Laparoscopic Appendectomy

What are the recommendations for travel?

If you are taking any blood-thinning medication/anticoagulant, please let your doctor know as some may need to be stopped before you travel for the procedure. Travelers to Thailand should plan to stay in the country for at least one week or for the entire duration of treatment. If you plan to return home after the procedure, please speak to your doctor before making travel arrangements. During your follow-up appointment your medical team will assess your health and your incision and you will receive documents detailing your medical and treatment history and your "Fit to Fly" certificate (if needed).

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What are the signs and symptoms of appendicitis?

-Appendicitis may cause pain in the abdomen which may be described as follows: -Pain may start in the area around the belly button and move over to the lower right-hand side of the abdomen, but may also start in the lower right-hand side of the abdomen. The pain usually increases in severity over time. -Pain may become more severe with moving, taking deep breaths, being touched, and coughing or sneezing. It may also spread throughout the abdomen if the appendix ruptures. -Other symptoms include, but are not limited to, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, fever and chills, constipation, diarrhea, inability to pass gas, and abdominal swelling. -The symptoms of appendicitis may resemble other medical conditions. Furthermore, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Always consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and the appropriate treatment. ** It is important that patients with symptoms of appendicitis not take laxatives or enemas to relieve constipation as these can cause the appendix to burst. Pain medication should also be avoided as they can mask other symptoms. **

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Is every patient fit for laparoscopic appendectomy?

No. Most surgeons would not recommend laparoscopic appendicectomy in those with pre-existing disease conditions. Patients with cardiac diseases and COPD should not be considered a good candidate for laparoscopic appendectomy. Laparoscopic appendectomy may also be more difficult in patients who have had previous lower abdominal surgery. The elderly may also be at increased risk for complications with general anaesthesia combined with pneumoperitoneum. Laparoscopy does add to the surgical risk in patients with a lowered cardio-pulmonary reserve with regard to the consequences of the pneumoperitoneum and a longer operative time.

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