The appendix is a small tubular structure located in the right lower part of the abdomen and comes off the first part of the colon. Its function is unknown, but it is known to cause trouble when it becomes inflamed and one develops “appendicitis.” The most definitive treatment for appendicitis is surgical removal. This is typically performed in a laparoscopic fashion using small incisions. In more severe cases of appendicitis where the appendix has ruptured a more extensive procedure may become necessary.
