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Appendicitis & Laparoscopic Appendectomy

Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. It is the most common abdominal surgical emergency and needs prompt medical attention.

Typical symptoms

  • Pain that begins around the belly button and moves to the lower right abdomen over 12–24 hours.
  • Pain worse on walking, coughing or going over bumps.
  • Loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting.
  • Low-grade fever.

Children, pregnant women and older adults may have unusual symptoms, so any persistent abdominal pain deserves a check-up.

Go to the emergency department if pain is severe, spreads across the whole abdomen, or is accompanied by high fever, a rigid abdomen or persistent vomiting – these may signal a burst (perforated) appendix.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is based on examination supported by blood tests (raised white cells and CRP) and imaging – ultrasound in children and young women, CT scan in most adults. Scores such as the Alvarado score help doctors judge the likelihood.

Treatment

Laparoscopic appendectomy

The standard treatment. Through three small cuts, the inflamed appendix is removed under general anaesthesia, usually in 30–60 minutes. Compared with open surgery it means less pain, a lower wound-infection rate and faster recovery, and it lets the surgeon examine the rest of the abdomen.

Antibiotics first

For selected adults with uncomplicated appendicitis confirmed on CT, antibiotics alone can be tried. About 7 in 10 avoid surgery in the first year, but recurrence is common later. This should be discussed with your surgeon.

Complicated appendicitis

A perforated appendix or abscess may need drainage, a longer course of antibiotics and a longer hospital stay.

Recovery

  • Hospital stay: 1–2 days for uncomplicated cases.
  • Normal light activity within a week; desk work in 1–2 weeks.
  • Avoid heavy lifting for 3–4 weeks.
  • You can live a completely normal life without an appendix.

Frequently asked questions

Can appendicitis go away on its own?

Mild cases sometimes settle, but there is a risk of rupture, so self-treatment at home is unsafe. Always seek medical assessment.

How quickly does the appendix burst?

Risk rises after 36–72 hours from the start of symptoms, which is why early diagnosis matters.

Will I have a scar?

Laparoscopic surgery leaves three small scars of 5–10 mm, usually one hidden in the belly button.

Last reviewed: October 2026. This page is general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor.