Appendix

Basics

a narrow, worm-like diverticulum arising from the caecum, inferior to the ileocaecal valve
Its length ranges from about 5-15 cms and it is completely covered by peritoneum
possesses a short mesentery, the mesoappendix
Although the origin of the appendix is relatively constant, the position of its body is variable
Most commonly, it is retrocaecal but it might also be found extending down into the pelvis, or in front of or behind the ileum
The muscosa of the appendix is particularly rich in lymphoid tissue and it is susceptible to infection
McBurney's point is an important surface landmark for the appendix
- It is at the junction of the lateral 1/3 and the medial 2/3 of a line joining the right anterior superior iliac spine to the umbilicus.