Function Of Appendix In Human Body And What Happen If It Is Removed ?

What is Appendix?

Appendix is a blind-ended tube connected to the cecum. The cecum is situated at the junction of the small and the large intestines. The length of the appendix is 9 cm on an average. It lies in the lower quadrant of the abdomen. In the abdomen its position corresponds to a point on the surface called the McBurney's point.

Functions of Appendix

1.The most important function is to maintain a gut flora by acting as a safe house for the beneficial bacteria in the recovery from diarrhoea. Appendix is surrounded by a immune tissue called the gut associated lymphoid tissue. This tissue aids in providing immunity as it supports the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria.
2.In the recent researches appendix is seen as an important component of mammalian mucosal immune function. It has been seen to initiate particularly B cell mediated immune responses and extrathymically derived T cells. These cells bring about the movement and elimination of waste matter in the digestive system.
3.The lymphatic vessels of the appendix regulate pathogens and produce defence reactions against deadly diseases. It provides some more defences from the invading pathogens and fighting against the viruses and bacteria that infect that portion of the bowel.
4.Appendix is a vestigial structure that has lost its original functionality and has evoked a new function. It has evolved a new function of rebooting the digestive system of new things and protecting from the germs.

Appendectomy

It is the surgical removal of the appendix. It is a condition that requires immediate surgery. The surgery treats appendicitis, an inflammatory condition of the appendix. Appendicitis is an infection which causes an infection in the opening of appendix making it clogged with bacteria and stool. The only way to cure this condition is removal of the appendix. This condition is to be treated immediately. If the appendix ruptures, the bacteria and fecal particles may spread all over the abdomen and may develop a serious infection called peritonitis.

Signs and symptoms of appendicitis include:

• Stomach pain
• Abdominal swelling
• Rigid muscles
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Low grade fever

Risks of Appendectomy

Some of the risks of Appendectomy are as follows:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Injury to nearby organs
• Blocked bowels

Procedure of Appendectomy

Two types of Appendectomy can be carried out. They are as follows:

Open Appendectomy: In this, an incision is made at the lower right side of the abdomen. After this appendix is removed and stiches are made. This appendectomy is used when the appendix has ruptured and the infection has spread to other organs.

Laparoscopic Appendectomy: In this process, the appendix is accessed by making a few small incisions in the abdomen. A narrow cannula is inserted to inflate the abdomen with carbon dioxide gas to allow a clear vision of abdomen. After inflation, a laparoscope is inserted which has high-intensity light and a high-resolution camera at the front. A camera displays images and allows the surgeon to tie off the appendix and remove it off. Next, the incisions are cleaned and closed. It is best for the individuals who are old and are overweight. The risks in it are fewer than the open appendectomy procedure.

In India appendix removal surgery is cost effective. The cost varies from city to city and cost of appendectomy in some emerging cities across India is available here.

Effects of Appendectomy

After Appendectomy, a few discomfort and pain exists which are known as short term complications. However, long term complications never exist in Appendectomy.

They are classified below:

• Moderate pain in the area where the incisions are made. This pain is due to the stiches and goes off in some days.
• Pain or discomfort near the abdominal area.
• Swelling and redness around the incision.
• Wound infection: In spite of taking antibiotics some times an infection may occur due to unhygienic conditions.
• Bleeding under the skin that may cause a firm swelling. This bleeding usually goes off with in some days.
• Scarring – both surgical techniques will leave some scarring where the incisions were made
• A collection of pus (abscess). In rare cases, an infection caused by the appendix bursting can lead to an abscess after surgery.
• Hernia may occur at the site of the open incision or in the incisions made in the laproscropic surgery.
• General anaesthetic are used but they may also carry some risks. The risk may be an allergic reaction or inhaling stomach contents, leading to pneumonia. 
• Symptoms like fever above 101F, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, and diarrhea or constipation that lasts for more than two days are to be consulted by a doctor immediately. These signs may be often due to infection and need immediate medication.