How is appendicitis treated?

How is appendicitis treated?

Most people with appendicitis need a surgery called an appendectomy. It removes a diseased appendix. If the appendix hasn’t yet ruptured, surgery prevents that rupture and keeps infection from spreading.

Before surgery, you receive intravenous (IV) antibiotics to treat infection. Some cases of mild appendicitis get better with antibiotics alone. Your doctor will watch you closely to determine if you need surgery. Surgery is the only way to treat abdominal infection when the appendix ruptures.

If you need surgery, most appendectomies are done laparoscopically. Laparoscopic procedures take place with a scope through small incisions. This minimally invasive approach helps you heal faster, with less pain. You may need major abdominal surgery (laparotomy) if the appendix ruptures.