Appendicitis occurs when the appendix is blocked and becomes infected due to an invasion of intestinal bacteria. If appendicitis is left untreated, it may cause the appendix to rupture (burst). If the appendix ruptures, the infected contents flow into the abdominal cavity. This can cause a much more serious medical emergency known as peritonitis, which is inflammation of the membranes lining the abdominal wall and organs.

Without prompt treatment, peritonitis can be life threatening. Surgery to remove an appendix can either be done as an “Open” or “Laparoscopic” (or keyhole) appendicectomy. The type of operation you have will depend on how severe your appendicitis is. Once the appendix is accessed, the blood vessels that supply it are clamped and the appendix is cut and removed. You should be able to leave hospital 1-2 days after the operation.