Appendix Conditions

The appendix, a small, tube-like organ attached to the first part of the large intestine, does not have a specific purpose. Appendicitis is the most common condition of the appendix, but other uncommon disorders also affect this organ. The appendix can be the site of benign tumors called adenomas, as well as malignant tumors — although appendix cancer is extremely rare.

General and gastrointestinal surgeons at Brigham and Women’s Hospital offer highly effective treatment for patients with appendix conditions. Our board-certified surgeons have an unmatched depth of surgical experience, performing thousands of surgical procedures each year. This results in better care for routine operations such as laparoscopic appendectomy and more successful outcomes for minimally invasive surgical approaches for rare appendix cancers.

Known worldwide for their skill at identifying and treating appendix problems, our surgeons are faculty members at Harvard Medical School and are active researchers who continually seek causes and investigate treatments for appendicitis and appendix disorders. We train the next generation of surgeons through our Surgical Residency and Fellowship Programs.

General and gastrointestinal surgery services are available at multiple locations in and around Boston.

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