Appendix

Appendix

The appendix is a small, tube-shaped pouch that’s attached to your intestines on the lower right side of your abdomen. Its exact purpose is unknown. Your body can still function without it.

If you don’t receive treatment for appendicitis, your appendix can rupture (burst). A ruptured appendix can release bacteria and other toxins into your abdominal cavity. This can lead to a longer hospital stay and could be life threatening.

During the surgery, a surgeon makes one incision in the lower right side of your abdomen. They remove the appendix and then close the wound with stitches.

This procedure allows the surgeon to clean the abdominal cavity if your appendix has burst.