Mansfield Appendectomy
Emergency Treatment for Appendicitis
Appendectomy is one of the most common emergency surgeries we perform here at Surgical Associates of Mansfield. When the appendix - the small, tube-like sac located at the end of the first part of the colon - becomes inflamed, the condition is known as appendicitis. While the purpose of the appendix is unknown, when it gets blocked and becomes infected, it can be extremely dangerous to the patient.
An appendectomy procedure will remove the infected appendix and relieve pain and any other symptoms the patient is experiencing. We perform this procedure by single-site robotically or laparoscopically. After the appendix is removed, the person is no longer at risk of appendicitis. It is imperative that an appendectomy is performed immediately when the individual begins to notice any of the symptoms of appendicitis we will go over below. If the organ is not removed, the appendix can burst, resulting in a serious abdominal infection called peritonitis.
Symptoms of Appendicitis
In most cases, the symptoms associated with appendicitis come on quickly, within a day or two, and are extremely painful.
It is of the utmost importance that the patient seeks emergency medical care right away if they notice any of the following symptoms:
- Aching pain starting around the belly button, then shifting to the lower right abdomen
- Sharp pain or pressure that increases with movements such as walking or coughing
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Constipation
- Inability to pass gas
- Abdominal swelling
- Diarrhea
About Appendectomy
Unfortunately, appendicitis cannot be cured by medicine. However, an appendectomy can alleviate the symptoms and prevent any further complications from taking place. Removing the appendix will not affect your health long-term, which is why it is important to seek medical attention right away if you fear you are experiencing appendicitis. In the event your appendix becomes infected or bursts and is not removed, it could result in severe, life-threatening problems.
An appendectomy is the most common form of emergency gastrointestinal surgery and our surgeons are highly-trained and experienced with this procedure. During this operation, the surgeon will remove the appendix and close its connection to the colon. There are several different options for how this is done: either laparoscopically or through an open incision.
The surgeons at Surgical Associates of Mansfield, use robotic technology to help ensure accuracy and precision with all procedures, including appendectomy.
To learn more about the emergency surgery services offered at Surgical Associates of Mansfield, please contact us today.