US Medical Term · procedures
Appendectomy
Apendicectomía
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Appendectomy |
| Spanish (Español) | Apendicectomía |
| Chinese (中文) | 闌尾切除術 |
| Korean (한국어) | 충수절제술 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Phẫu thuật cắt ruột thừa |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Appendectomy |
| Portuguese (Português) | Apendicectomia |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | การผ่าตัดไส้ติ่ง |
| Japanese (日本語) | 虫垂切除術 |
What it means
An appendectomy is surgical removal of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. It is most commonly performed as an emergency when the appendix becomes inflamed or infected, a condition called appendicitis. Without treatment, a ruptured appendix can be life-threatening. The surgery is usually done laparoscopically through small incisions using a tiny camera, though open surgery may be needed if the appendix has burst. Most patients go home within one to two days and return to normal activity within two to four weeks. Pain, bloating, and fever before surgery are typical warning signs.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
I think I need an appendectomy — my right side has been in severe pain for hours.
Creo que necesito una apendicectomía — he tenido un dolor intenso en el lado derecho por horas.
What are the risks of an appendectomy and how long is recovery?
¿Cuáles son los riesgos de una apendicectomía y cuánto dura la recuperación?
Will the appendectomy be laparoscopic or open surgery?
¿La apendicectomía será laparoscópica o cirugía abierta?
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026