appendectomy /ap′əndek″təmē/ [L, appendere + Gk, ektomē, excision] , the surgical removal of the vermiform appendix. The operation is performed in acute appendicitis to remove an inflamed appendix before it ruptures. If the appendix has perforated and the risk of peritonitis is high, a drain may be left in place or the wound may be left open, dressing changes are more frequent, and appropriate antibiotics are prescribed. This procedure can be performed via laparoscopy or open surgery. See also abdominal surgery.
