Appendix?

Does anyone know if they remove the appendix during a TAH/BSO.. I have read alot of womans post who state the appendix was removed. Just a lil curious as to why they do this?

	Quote:
Originally Posted by Chertle Does anyone know if they remove the appendix during a TAH/BSO.. I have read alot of womans post who state the appendix was removed. Just a lil curious as to why they do this?

I didn't know it was an option until I went for my preop and signed all the paperwork at which time they told me if I was agreeable to it and there was extensive Endometriosis it was advisable to remove the appendix while they were in there. So I signed a consent form and I did have a lot of endometriosis so my appendix was removed.

I have endometriosis as well.. I would rather them take it than to deal with it later I'm so tired of being sick

Mine was removed when I had my cesarean section many years ago..my doc said it was something he did so it didn't have to be bothered with later if something went wrong with it...so it is something to ask your doc. I imagine some do and some don't.

Lee

There are several reasons gynecological surgeons may or may not do an elective appendectomy during a gynecological surgery. Each surgeon will have his/her own opinion that will affect whether or not they will automatically perform one.

In the past, the appendix was considered unimportant and many people did die from appendix related issues. Thus, incidental appendectomies became a bit routine. Now, however, it has been decided that the appendix does have a purpose. It can store good bacteria that can be needed if an illness wipes out the bacteria needed for digestion.

If there are reasons you think you should have an appendectomy, talk to your doctor. According to the ACOG, limited studies seem to indicate that women 35 years of age and younger may benefit the most from incidental appendectomies performed during a gynecological procedures. On the other hand, women over the age of 50 may not benefit at all. For those between the ages of 35 and 50, benefits can depend on individual circumstances.

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