Definition

1. Noun:
   • Surgical removal of the vermiform appendix: An "appendectomy" is a surgical operation to remove the appendix, a small, tube-shaped organ attached to the large intestine. This procedure is typically performed to treat appendicitis, which is an inflammation of the appendix.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The patient underwent an emergency appendectomy after being diagnosed with acute appendicitis.
  • Laparoscopic appendectomy is a minimally invasive surgical technique.
  • Recovery from a routine appendectomy usually takes a few weeks.

Advanced Usage

• "to perform an appendectomy": to carry out the surgical procedure.
  • The surgeon will perform an appendectomy this afternoon.
• "to undergo an appendectomy": to have the surgery done to oneself.
  • He had to undergo an appendectomy while traveling abroad.

Variants and Related Words

• Appendicitis (n): The medical condition involving inflammation of the appendix, which often necessitates an appendectomy.
  • Appendicitis is the most common reason for an appendectomy.
• Appendiceal (adj): Pertaining to the appendix.
  • Appendiceal abscesses can complicate an appendectomy.

Synonyms

• Appendicectomy: This is a variant spelling, more commonly used in British English, with the same meaning.

Notes on Meaning

• The term "appendectomy" refers specifically to the surgical procedure itself. The reason for the surgery (appendicitis) and the organ removed (the appendix) are separate, though closely related, concepts.

Noun

1. surgical removal of the vermiform appendix