what is appendix used for

The appendix is a small organ located in the lower right abdomen of humans. Although its exact function is not fully understood, there are several theories about its purpose. Some scientists and doctors believe that the appendix may be a vestigial digestive organ, while others suggest that it has some role in our immune system that is slightly different from the rest of the digestive tract. According to a new theory, the appendix acts as a safe house for good bacteria, although this has not been definitively proven. The appendix contains a particular type of tissue associated with the lymphatic system, which carries the white blood cells needed to fight infections. During the early years of development, the appendix has been shown to function as a lymphoid organ, assisting with the maturation of B lymphocytes and in the production of immunoglobulin A antibodies. In the past, the appendix was often routinely removed and discarded during other abdominal surgeries to prevent any possibility of a later attack of appendicitis. However, the appendix is now spared in case it is needed later for reconstructive surgery if the urinary bladder is removed.