Also known as the vermiform appendix, cecal, or vermix, the human appendix is a tubular-shaped pouch.
It has a closed end and an open end that is attached to the colon or large intestine.
What is the weight of an appendix?
Approximately 5 or 6 ounces.
It’s also approximately 4 inches in length.
But it can be shorter and lighter than this. It could also be longer and heavier than this.
The longest appendix removed measured over 10 inches long.
Why Do Humans Have An Appendix?
There different opinions about what the human appendix does.
For many years, medical professionals believed that the appendix is a redundant part of the human body.
They believed that it served a specific purpose in the past, before humans evolved into what they are now.
However, in recent years, another school of thought has emerged. They believe the appendix still serves an important purpose.
These people believe that the appendix stores small amounts of good bacteria. This helps our bodies to stay healthy.
It can get blocked, inflamed, and eventually bursts. If this occurs, an appendix has to be surgically removed.
Inflammation of the appendix is also referred to as appendicitis. If an appendix bursts, it can be dangerous, due to all the bacteria and other harmful substances which go into the blood stream.
This means it’s vital to treat this condition as quickly as possible. If you have a sharp pain in your side, then, most likely, you are experiencing the symptoms of appendicitis.
Where Is The Appendix?
The human appendix is located between the large intestine and the small intestine. It sits close to the hip bone on the right-hand side of your body.
Interestingly, only humans and apes have an appendix.
~ Fun Fact ~
Appendicitis is one of the most common emergencies to occur in the United States. Over 300,000 patients complain about this health condition every year.An appendix is removed by a medical procedure called laproscopic surgery or keyhole surgery. It takes as little as 8 minutes!
Resources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Appendix_(anatomy)
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4011757/