Their presence indicates it may have a dual role of being part of the immune system and part of the digestive system. Researchers are divided on the usefulness of the appendix in human anatomy. They have two different ideas about its’ function.

Vestigial Appendix Hypothesis:

• This group theorizes it may have once been useful to digest the cellulose in plant fiber.

• This group also concludes it is a vestigial organ in anatomy meaning it no longer serves a purpose as a remnant of the digestive system.

Appendix as an Immune System Hypothesis:

• This group theorizes that the appendix may be a storage area of beneficial bacteria.

• It may serve to release this beneficial bacteria following an illness to boost recovery from the illness.

The debate continues as more is learned about the usefulness or not of the appendix. The appendix is located on the right side of the abdomen and attaches to the large intestine (cecum). It is located in the right iliac region of the abdomen (lower right-hand side). It measures about 4 inches long and has a diameter of one quarter of an inch. The specific function(s) of the appendix remain unclear to scientists who study human anatomy.