Aðaskurðaðgerð

Aðaskurðaðgerð, commonly known in English as appendectomy, is a surgical procedure to remove the appendix, a small, finger-shaped pouch attached to the large intestine. This operation is most frequently performed to treat appendicitis, an inflammation of the appendix that can cause severe pain and potentially life-threatening complications if left untreated.

The procedure can be carried out using two main techniques: open surgery or laparoscopic surgery. In open appendectomy, a single incision is made in the lower right abdomen. In laparoscopic appendectomy, also known as keyhole surgery, several small incisions are made, and a laparoscope, a thin tube with a camera, is inserted to guide the surgeon. Laparoscopic surgery generally results in a faster recovery time and less scarring.

Before the surgery, the patient will undergo a physical examination and may have blood tests and imaging scans, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to confirm the diagnosis. The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. Following the procedure, patients are usually monitored for a short period before being discharged, with recovery times varying depending on the surgical method and the patient's overall health. Complications, though rare, can include infection or bleeding.