Which medical procedure involves the removal of the appendix?

The procedure that involves the removal of the appendix is known as an appendectomy. This surgical operation is performed to treat appendicitis, which is the inflammation of the appendix. During an appendectomy, the inflamed appendix is excised, typically through a small incision in the lower right abdomen. This procedure is often performed as an emergency surgery to prevent the spread of infection or potential complications, such as a ruptured appendix.

In understanding why appendectomy is the correct answer, it's important to recognize that the other options refer to different surgical procedures. A colostomy involves creating an opening (stoma) in the abdominal wall for the colon, typically in cases involving colorectal diseases or obstructions. A laminectomy is a surgery aimed at relieving pressure on the spinal cord or nerves by removing a portion of the vertebra. A cholecystectomy, on the other hand, is the removal of the gallbladder, usually due to gallstones. Each of these procedures serves a distinct purpose, and therefore, only appendectomy specifically addresses the removal of the appendix.