Which procedure involves the removal of the appendix?

The procedure that involves the removal of the appendix is an appendectomy. This surgical operation is performed to treat appendicitis, which is an inflammation of the appendix that can lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly. During an appendectomy, the surgeon removes the appendix to alleviate pain and prevent potential health risks associated with a ruptured appendix, such as peritonitis or abscess formation.

Understanding this procedure is essential as it is one of the most commonly performed surgeries and is often conducted as an emergency procedure. It can be done through traditional open surgery or laparoscopically, which is less invasive and typically results in shorter recovery times for patients. Recognizing the significance of an appendectomy helps medical scribes accurately document surgical histories and procedures in patient records.