Discharge Instructions for Laparoscopic Appendectomy (Appendix Removal)

You have had a procedure known as laparoscopic appendectomy to remove your appendix. The appendix is a worm-shaped hollow pouch attached to the beginning of your large intestine. During your procedure, the doctor made two to four small incisions. One was near your bellybutton, and the others were elsewhere on your abdomen. Through one incision, the doctor inserted a thin tube with a camera attached (called a laparoscope). Surgical tools were inserted in the other incisions.

While you recover you may have discomfort in your shoulder and chest for up to 48 hours after surgery. This is normal. It is caused by carbon dioxide (gas) used during the operation. It will go away. 

Activity

• Resume light activities around your home as soon as possible.

• Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds until your doctor says it’s okay.

• Limit sports and strenuous activities for 1 or 2 weeks.

• Shower as usual.

  • Gently wash around your incisions with soap and water.

  • Don’t bathe or soak in a tub until your incisions are well healed.

• Wear loose-fitting clothes. This will help you be more comfortable and cause less irritation around your incisions.

• Don’t drive until you are no longer taking prescription pain medication.

Diet

• Eat a bland, low-fat diet, such as the following:

  • Well-cooked soft cereals

  • Mashed potatoes

  • Plain toast or bread, crackers

  • Plain spaghetti

  • Rice

  • Macaroni (plain or with cheese)

  • Cottage cheese

  • Puddings

  • Low-fat yogurt

  • Low-fat milk

  • Ripe bananas

• Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day, unless directed otherwise.

• If you are constipated, take a fiber laxative such as Metamucil.

Follow-Up

Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.