An appendectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the appendix. Appendectomy is the standard surgical treatment for appendicitis, a painful inflammation of the appendix. Because an inflamed appendix has the potential to burst, appendicitis is considered a medical emergency.

A burst appendix can spread infectious agents throughout the abdomen, and if the infection spreads to the bloodstream, it can lead to sepsis – which is life-threatening. Seeking timely treatment is of the essence when the first symptoms of appendicitis develop.