Laparoscopic appendectomy

Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
Updated on June 08, 2025
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Laparoscopic appendectomy is a type of minimally invasive surgery performed under general anesthesia using laparoscopic techniques to remove the appendix. During the operation, there is minimal bleeding, and recovery tends to be quicker, with less damage to the body. The scars left are small, consisting of three barely noticeable incisions. Typically, patients need to stay in the hospital for three to five days before they can be discharged. On the day of the surgery, patients are required to fast, and one to two days post-surgery, they may choose a semi-liquid diet and can start moving around. However, laparoscopic surgery is not suitable for individuals who cannot tolerate general anesthesia; instead, they must opt for an appendectomy through an incision at McBurney's point.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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Does acute appendicitis cause diarrhea?

Acute appendicitis rarely involves diarrhea. Typical symptoms include abdominal pain that begins around the navel or upper abdomen and gradually shifts to the lower right abdomen. The pain is persistent and localized. Additionally, irritation of the gastrointestinal tract may cause nausea or vomiting. If the appendix becomes suppurative or perforated, it can lead to tension in the abdominal muscles, tenderness, and rebound pain. Most cases of acute appendicitis require surgical removal, and currently, laparoscopic appendectomy is a commonly used procedure.

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Written by Zhang Peng
General Surgery
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Characteristics of Appendicitis Pain

The most typical pain manifestation of appendicitis is migratory pain, which generally starts in the upper abdomen or around the navel, and in most cases moves to the lower right abdomen and becomes fixed within a few hours. During physical examination, the pain usually localizes to a fixed point in the lower right abdomen, typically at McBurney's point, although this can vary with the position of the appendix. However, as the condition of the appendix progresses, such as when it becomes purulent or even gangrenous, the inflammation worsens and the area of tenderness can expand. This is mostly manifested by symptoms of peritoneal irritation, which are generally indicative of the timing for surgery. In most cases of appendicitis where the diagnosis is clear, early surgical intervention is recommended, as surgery is the only cure. Most patients who improve with conservative treatment are likely to experience recurrence later on.

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Written by Li Jin Quan
General Surgery
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Does chronic appendicitis cause a high fever?

Chronic appendicitis is just a common gastrointestinal disease. Generally, chronic appendicitis does not involve fever. However, a low-grade fever may occur when the inflammation in some cases of chronic appendicitis is not well-controlled. A small percentage of chronic appendicitis can acutely flare up and lead to a purulent infection, causing purulent appendicitis, which may lead to perforation of the appendix, diffuse peritonitis, septic shock, and high fever. Therefore, it is essential to actively treat chronic appendicitis, and early surgical intervention is recommended.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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Can appendicitis cause back pain?

Appendicitis located posterior to the peritoneum generally causes back pain, along with gastrointestinal irritation symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Appendicitis at the cecum location will cause pain in the lower right abdomen, with significant tenderness and rebound pain at McBurney's point. Once appendicitis is diagnosed, it is most often treated surgically. Currently, laparoscopic appendectomy is commonly used. This method involves less bleeding during surgery and a faster recovery thereafter. Postoperative care is important, including regular dressing changes of the surgical incision. The stitches can usually be removed about a week after surgery. Dietary adjustments are necessary after surgery, starting with a semi-liquid diet and gradually transitioning to a normal diet. At least two weeks of rest are recommended postoperatively.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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What can you eat with appendicitis?

The diet for appendicitis should be based on the needs of the condition, determining what can or cannot be eaten based on the response of the gastrointestinal tract. During the acute inflammatory phase, fasting is necessary, and hydration and electrolytes should be replenished through intravenous fluids. If the inflammation is severe, immediate surgical treatment should be undertaken. For chronic appendicitis, soft and easily digestible foods can be consumed, and proactive anti-inflammatory or surgical treatments should be pursued. Post-surgery, it is important to rest in bed and use anti-infection medications timely to prevent infections.