Appendectomy facts for kids
An appendectomy is a common operation. It is when doctors remove a small organ called the vermiform appendix. This surgery is usually done to treat a problem called appendicitis. Appendicitis happens when the appendix gets swollen and infected.
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What is the appendix?
The appendix is a small, finger-shaped organ. It is about 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) long. It hangs off the large intestine, near where it meets the small intestine. Scientists are not completely sure what the appendix does. Some think it might help with the body's immune system. Others believe it is a leftover part from our ancestors.
What is appendicitis?
Appendicitis is when the appendix becomes inflamed and infected. This can happen if something blocks the opening of the appendix. The blockage might be from hardened stool or swollen lymph nodes. When blocked, bacteria can grow inside the appendix. This causes it to swell up and become painful.
What are the signs of appendicitis?
The most common sign of appendicitis is pain. This pain often starts around the belly button. It then moves to the lower right side of the belly. The pain usually gets worse over time.
Other signs can include:
- Feeling sick to your stomach
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Constipation or diarrhea
If you have these symptoms, it is important to tell an adult right away. Doctors need to check for appendicitis quickly.
Why is an appendectomy needed?
An appendectomy is needed to remove the inflamed appendix. If appendicitis is not treated, the appendix can burst. A burst appendix can spread infection inside the belly. This can lead to a very serious condition called peritonitis. Peritonitis is a dangerous infection that needs urgent medical care. Removing the appendix prevents these serious problems.
How is an appendectomy performed?
There are two main ways doctors perform an appendectomy:
Laparoscopic appendectomy
This is the most common method today. Doctors make a few small cuts, usually less than an inch long. They insert a thin tube with a camera and light, called a laparoscope. This lets them see inside the belly on a screen. Special tools are then used through other small cuts to remove the appendix.
This method often means:
- Less pain after surgery
- Smaller scars
- Faster recovery time
Open appendectomy
Sometimes, doctors need to make one larger cut. This cut is usually about 2 to 4 inches long. It is made in the lower right side of the belly. This method is used if the appendix has burst. It is also used if there is a lot of infection. An open appendectomy might also be chosen for very young children.
Both types of surgery are done while you are asleep. This is called general anesthesia. You will not feel any pain during the operation.
What happens after surgery?
After an appendectomy, most people stay in the hospital for a day or two. You might feel some pain, but doctors will give you medicine for it. You will slowly start to eat and drink again. Nurses will help you get out of bed and walk around. This helps with recovery.
Most kids can go back to school within a week or two. You might need to avoid strong activities for a few weeks. This gives your body time to heal completely. The good news is that you can live a normal life without your appendix.
Images for kids
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Surgeons perform a laparoscopic appendectomy.
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Scar and bruise 2 days after operation
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An appendectomy at the French Hospital in Tbilisi, Georgia, 1919
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See also
In Spanish: Apendicectomía para niños
