An appendectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the appendix, a small, tube-like structure attached to the large intestine. This operation is typically performed when a person has appendicitis, which is an inflammation of the appendix that can cause severe abdominal pain and other complications if not treated promptly. The procedure can be done using traditional open surgery or a minimally invasive technique called laparoscopic surgery. After the appendix is removed, patients usually recover within a few weeks, although recovery times can vary based on individual health and the method used for the surgery.