Laparoscopic Appendectomy
What is Laparoscopic Appendectomy? Laparoscopic appendectomy is the keyhole removal of the appendix, the standard treatment for appendicitis. Instead of a single 5–8 cm cut, the surgeon works through three incisions of under 1 cm using a camera and fine instruments. Typical duration at Iswarya Hospital, OMR Chennai: 30–60 mins. Recovery: 1–2 weeks.
This means less pain, a much smaller scar, a lower wound-infection rate and a faster return to school or work. At Iswarya Hospital appendicitis is treated as an emergency around the clock, and almost all cases are completed laparoscopically, including ruptured appendicitis where the abdomen can be washed out thoroughly through the same small ports.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Durai Ravi, Senior Consultant – General, Advanced Laparoscopic, Laser & Robotic Surgeon · Updated 9 October 2026
How is Laparoscopic Appendectomy performed?
- 1
General anaesthesia is given and a single dose of antibiotic is administered.
- 2
Three small incisions are made: at the navel and in the lower abdomen.
- 3
The abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide and a camera is inserted to view the appendix.
- 4
The appendix's blood supply is sealed and its base is secured with clips or a stapler.
- 5
The appendix is placed in a retrieval bag and removed through the navel incision.
- 6
The abdomen is washed if infection has spread, and the incisions are closed with dissolving stitches.
What are the benefits of Laparoscopic Appendectomy?
- ✓Definitive cure for appendicitis with no chance of recurrence
- ✓Three tiny scars instead of one long incision
- ✓Less post-operative pain and lower need for painkillers
- ✓Most patients are discharged the same or next day
- ✓Lower wound-infection rate than open appendectomy
How do you prepare for Laparoscopic Appendectomy?
- Stop eating and drinking as soon as appendicitis is suspected.
- Blood tests, urine test and an ultrasound or CT scan confirm the diagnosis.
- Tell the surgeon about blood thinners, allergies and previous abdominal operations.
- Intravenous fluids and antibiotics are started before surgery.
- Remove jewellery, nail polish and contact lenses before going to theatre.
What are the risks and side effects of Laparoscopic Appendectomy?
- Wound infection at a port site
- Abscess inside the abdomen, more likely if the appendix had ruptured
- Bleeding needing a return to theatre (rare)
- Injury to the bowel or blood vessels (rare)
- Conversion to open surgery if the anatomy is unclear or inflammation is severe
Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.
What is recovery like after Laparoscopic Appendectomy?
- Sips of water within hours; a normal light diet by the next day.
- Walk on the day of surgery to reduce clot risk and gas discomfort.
- Keep the small dressings dry for 48 hours; showering is fine after that.
- Avoid lifting more than 5 kg or vigorous sport for 2–3 weeks.
- Report fever, worsening pain or discharge from a wound straight away.
Frequently asked questions about Laparoscopic Appendectomy
Is laparoscopic appendectomy safe if my appendix has burst?
Yes. A ruptured appendix can still be removed laparoscopically, and the camera allows the surgeon to wash out the whole abdomen thoroughly. The hospital stay is longer, usually 3–5 days with intravenous antibiotics.
How long will I be in hospital?
For uncomplicated appendicitis most patients go home within 24 hours of surgery. Children and adults recover at a similar pace.
Can I eat normally after the operation?
You can drink within a few hours and eat a light meal the same evening or next morning. There are no long-term dietary restrictions after appendix removal.
Will removing the appendix affect my health?
No. The appendix has no essential function in adults, and people live completely normal lives without it.
Where can you get Laparoscopic Appendectomy in Chennai?
Iswarya Hospital's General & Laparoscopic Surgery department performs a wide range of procedures using minimally invasive (keyhole) techniques for faster recovery, less pain, and shorter hospital stays — including hernia repair, gallbladder removal, appendectomy, and piles/fistula surgery.
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ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.