Appendectomy is the surgical removal of the appendix, a small, finger-shaped pouch that is located at the junction between the large and small intestines. The surgery is the standard treatment for inflammation and infection of the appendix and patients usually recover from appendectomy without experiencing complications. A ruptured appendix is considered a medical emergency. Surgeons use one of two surgical techniques open appendectomy or laparoscopic appendectomy for removal of appendix. The choice of method is made by the surgeon on a case-by-case basis. Paralytic ileus and wound infection may occur following the operation.