What is the appendix?

The appendix is a small, finger sized outgrowth, in the ‘Cecum’ portion of the Large Bowel.

What does the Appendix do?

It has no function, and if it is removed, there is no affect on future bowel movements, or your overall health.

What causes Appendicitis?

If the lumen of appendix gets blocked, secretions and bacterial overgrowth will fill the appendix and create pressure.

This pressure causes the pain, and fever. The goal is to remove the appendix before it bursts.

What are the signs and symptoms?

1. Peri-umbilical pain initially, that settles to the Right Lower Quadrant.
2. Low grade Fever
3. Severe pain when someone touches your abdomen.
4. Abnormal White Blood Cell count. (shows infection is brewing)

Surgery is often performed urgently:

Many surgeons use laparoscopy, robotics, or even a tiny incision. Many patients are home within a day.