This is a type of surgery to remove the appendix. If appendicitis is untreated, it may rupture or burst open and cause very serious illness or even death. Appendectomy is a common surgery and many people have had their appendix removed. One way to remove the appendix is by making one larger cut, or incision, below and to the right of your belly button. This is referred to as an open appendectomy. Laparoscopic appendectomy removes the appendix using small incisions and a camera.