Appendectomy
An appendicectomy is a surgical operation in which the vermiform appendix (a portion of the intestine) is removed. Appendicectomy is normally performed as an urgent or emergency procedure to treat acute appendicitis. It is the most commonly performed acute abdominal operation in Australia.
Appendectomy may be performed laparoscopically (as minimally invasive surgery) or as an open operation. Laparoscopy can be used if there is doubt about the diagnosis, allowing the appendix and nearby organs to be inspected before a decision is made about the correct procedure. Recovery is often faster after laparoscopic surgery, allowing quicker return to work and other physical activity.
Hernia
A hernia is an abnormal protrusion of the whole or part of a viscus (bowel, fat, omentum) from its normal place, usually in the abdomen (in the peritoneal cavity). The commonest type of hernia is an inguinal or groin hernia, but hernias can occur elsewhere in the abdominal wall, producing various names – ventral, incisional, epigastric, femoral, umbilical and parastomal.
Choosing which surgical repair for each hernia depends on the site and size of the hernia, as well as various patient factors. Whether the hernia is primary (never been repaired) or recurrent (had prior repair) can also be an important consideration. Hernias can be surgically repaired “open” by incising directly over the hernia or region, or laparoscopically (“key-hole”), depending on the type of hernia. Repairs can be done either by using sutures or by inserting an absorbable or non-absorbable mesh.
Some hernias can be repaired on as “day only” procedures, but larger ventral and incisional hernia repairs may involve a short stay in hospital.
Please speak with your doctor over what type of hernia you have, what repair is likely to be best for you and your circumstances, and importantly, how long you will need to recover from your operation.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy – Gallbladder
Further information coming soon!