What surgical procedure is used to remove the appendix?

The surgical procedure used to remove the appendix is an appendectomy. This procedure is specifically designed to treat appendicitis, which is the inflammation of the appendix. During an appendectomy, the surgeon typically makes an incision in the lower right abdomen to remove the appendix either through an open surgery or laparoscopically.

Appendicitis can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly, making the removal of the inflamed appendix critical in emergency situations to prevent a rupture, which can result in peritonitis, a life-threatening infection. The other procedures mentioned, such as colonoscopy, gastrostomy, and cholecystectomy, are used for different conditions and are not related to the treatment of appendicitis. Colonoscopy is primarily for examining the colon, gastrostomy involves creating an opening for feeding directly into the stomach, and cholecystectomy refers to the removal of the gallbladder. Thus, appendectomy is the only appropriate choice for appendix removal.