what is an appendix for

The appendix is a small, finger-shaped organ that branches off the cecum, a pouch situated at the junction of the small and large intestine. Although the exact function of the appendix is unclear, some scientists and doctors think it may have a role in our immune system that is slightly different from the rest of the digestive tract. Others suggest that it acts as a safe house for good bacteria and repopulates and reboots the intestine after intense diarrhea. However, the appendix serves little purpose, and when it does get attention, it’s usually because it’s become infected, causing a condition called appendicitis. The classic presentation of appendicitis is pain that starts around the belly button and then moves or migrates to the right lower abdomen. If appendicitis is suspected, the appendix is usually removed surgically, and the procedure is called an appendectomy.