APPENDECTOMY - A surgical procedure which involves the removal of an inflamed appendix. This procedure may be performed through a conventional abdominal incision or using a laparoscope. In both approaches the patient is "asleep" under general anesthesia. Convalescence in the hospital is 1 to 3 days. Typically much shorter if performed laparoscopically. Rupture of the appendix can lengthen recovery time considerably. See appendicitis.