Surgery·Surgery
Preparing for appendicectomy
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An appendicectomy (say: ap-en-dih-SEK-toh-mee) is surgery to remove the appendix. The appendix is a small, finger-shaped pouch at the start of your large intestine. Usually, the operation is done when the appendix becomes inflamed and infected, a condition called appendicitis. Removing it stops the infection from spreading and helps you get better.
Key facts
Yes, appendicectomy is a very common operation. Thousands of people have it every year in the UK.
Appendicitis can happen at any age, but it is most common in people between the ages of 10 and 30. It affects both men and women, though slightly more men get it.
Doctors will ask about your symptoms and do a physical exam, including gently pressing on your abdomen. They may also run tests to confirm appendicitis and rule out other problems.
You will likely be admitted to hospital. If appendicitis is confirmed, surgery is usually done within a few hours to prevent the appendix from bursting. The medical team will explain everything, answer your questions, and help you prepare for the operation.
The main treatment for appendicitis is surgery to remove the appendix. In some mild cases without complications, antibiotics alone may be tried first, but surgery is the most common and reliable way to fix the problem. Your surgeon will discuss the best option for you.
After an appendicectomy, most people start to feel better within a few days. You can usually go home 1–2 days after keyhole surgery, or 3–5 days after open surgery. You will need to take it easy for 1–2 weeks (keyhole) or 4–6 weeks (open) before returning to normal activities, including work and exercise.
You can start drinking clear fluids a few hours after surgery, then move to light foods like toast, rice, soup, and yoghurt. Eat small, frequent meals to avoid bloating. Stop if you feel nauseous. Gentle walking is encouraged as soon as you feel able – it helps blood flow and recovery. Avoid running, swimming, or heavy gym until your doctor says yes.
There is no proven way to prevent appendicitis or the need for appendicectomy. Eating a high‑fibre diet might slightly reduce the risk of a blockage, but it is not guaranteed. The best thing you can do is recognise symptoms early and seek medical help quickly – this lowers the chance of your appendix bursting and makes recovery easier.
No vaccine prevents appendicitis.
There is no routine screening for appendicitis. If you have symptoms, your doctor will evaluate you individually.
With prompt treatment, almost everyone makes a full recovery from appendicitis. Even after a burst appendix, most people get better with hospital care and antibiotics. The outlook is excellent – you can live a normal, healthy life without your appendix.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
If you have uncomplicated appendicitis (no rupture, abscess, or widespread infection), your doctor may offer a course of intravenous antibiotics first. This involves staying in hospital for antibiotics given through a vein in your arm. If this does not work, or if signs worsen, surgery will still be needed. Surgery itself can be done as a minimally invasive procedure (laparoscopic, using small cuts and a camera) or as an open operation (a larger cut in the lower right abdomen). Your surgeon will explain which method is best for you, depending on your health and how bad the inflammation is.
Surgery is recommended as soon as possible after diagnosis, usually within 24 hours. If the appendix has already burst (perforated), emergency surgery is needed immediately to clean the infection and remove the appendix.
An emergency surgery can be scary and stressful. It is normal to feel anxious, worried, or a bit down afterwards. Many people feel better within a few weeks, but if low mood or anxiety lasts, talk to your GP or a hospital counsellor. You can also call a mental health helpline for support.