Though academically, the appendix is one of the more intriguing organs in the human body, in practical terms, given its relevance usually only in cases of disease, to many people, it is more than a nuisance than anything, especially likely for those professionals charged with having to remove it in surgery. Thankfully, it can be removed fairly easily, and what's more, humans may well live without it.

Background

The worm-shaped vermiform appendix is, on average, about four inches long. Though some scientists suggest the human appendix aids the colon in digestion, most experts believe the appendix is evolutionary superfluous now, explaining why it can be removed without real consequence.

Appendix Symptoms

Concerning appendicitis, symptoms include anorexia, diarrhea, vomiting and other signs of an intestinal problem. Most pressing, though, are the pain and swelling, often necessitating emergency swelling. If untreated, an inflamed appendix can burst, leading to infection, shock and/or death.

Appendix Location

The appendix is located in the lower right of portion of the abdomen. It is attached to the large intestine at the cecum, the beginning of the intestine, and by virtue of this, is not spatially far from the ileum, or end of the small intestine.