Open Appendectomy
Open removal of the inflamed appendix through a small right iliac fossa incision — used for complicated appendicitis or when laparoscopy is unsuitable.
What is Open Appendectomy?
Open appendectomy is the traditional surgical treatment for appendicitis, performed through a small incision in the right lower abdomen (McBurney's or Lanz incision). Although largely replaced by laparoscopy, it remains the preferred approach in certain situations — perforated appendicitis with extensive contamination, appendicular mass, resource-limited settings, or when laparoscopy is unsafe. Dr. Abhishek performs this at Lux Hospitals with precise technique, offering reliable outcomes when open surgery is clinically indicated.
How the Procedure Works
Anaesthesia & Prep
General or spinal anaesthesia is administered; the right lower abdomen is prepared and draped.
McBurney Incision
A 4–6 cm transverse (Lanz) or oblique (McBurney) incision is made over the appendix location.
Muscle-Split Access
External oblique, internal oblique, and transversus muscles are split along fibres to enter the peritoneum.
Appendix Delivery & Removal
The appendix is delivered to the surface, mesoappendix is ligated, base is secured, and appendix is removed.
Washout & Closure
The peritoneum is irrigated if contaminated; layers are closed with absorbable sutures; skin is approximated.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →Reliable technique for complicated appendicitis
- →Direct access to manage perforation and peritoneal contamination
- →No need for pneumoperitoneum or specialised equipment
- →Safe when laparoscopic approach is contraindicated
- →Well-established, time-tested surgical technique
- →Allows thorough peritoneal washout in perforated cases
In complicated appendicitis with peritoneal contamination, open access allows thorough washout and direct management. The choice of approach always comes down to what is safest and most effective for the individual patient.
— Dr. Abhishek Katha, Consultant General & Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
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