What does the appendix do? Biologists explain the complicated evolution of this inconvenient organ
Most people know only two things about the appendix: You don't need it—and if it bursts, you need surgery fast.
Mar 9, 2026
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Digestive System: News and Research on Cecum
MeSH tree: A03.556.249.249.209
Why the appendix is much more important than we once thought
You may have heard that astronauts have their appendix removed before leaving Earth. After all, people say you can live without this organ because it serves no purpose, but how much truth is there in this belief?
Jun 12, 2025
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Bindi Irwin was rushed to hospital for appendix surgery. But what is appendicitis?
Bindi Irwin has reportedly been rushed to hospital in the United States to undergo emergency surgery for a ruptured appendix.
May 12, 2025
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Removing gut bacteria's potential 'safe house' may lower risk of colorectal cancer subtype
The appendix, once dismissed as an unnecessary human organ, has more recently been shown to play a role in the immune system. However, we lack a clear understanding of how its removal to treat appendicitis affects long-term ...
May 9, 2024
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Study finds significant variation in anatomy of human guts
New research finds there is significant variation in the anatomy of the human digestive system, with pronounced differences possible between healthy individuals. The finding has implications for understanding the role that ...
Apr 24, 2023
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