Description

The appendix is a small part at the end of the small intestine which has no known function. However, it can become inflammed and infected causing abdominal pain. This is known as appendicitis and can be mild or severe.

If severe, there is risk of the appendix bursting, causing a generalised abdominal infection called peritonitis, which is a very serious condition. Therefore, to avoid this, an appendicectomy operation is carried out which removes the appendix and avoids further problems. Occasionally, an appendix may be removed by a surgeon who is carrying out another unrelated operation in that area to avoid the possibilty of appendicitis in the future.