[Laparoscopic treatment of appendiceal mucocele]

Mucocele is a mucin-filled cavity, which can be multi-loculated as well. Mucocele is relatively rarely found in the appendix. The disease does not cause any symptoms in most cases, and it is usually an accidental finding. A thorough investigation should be carried out to exclude malignancy. Depending on the operative findings and the full histological report, the spectrum of surgery extends from appendectomy to right hemicolectomy. In this paper, we discuss the presentation, diagnostical options, and the possible surgical treatment--based on our experience with five cases. In three cases a non-tender mass was palpable in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen, while another patient presented with right lower quadrant abdominal pain and one with abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Abdominal and pelvic ultrasound and CT scans raised the possibility of mucocele, however colonoscopy was negative. After laparoscopic exploration, laparoscopy assisted partial caecum resection was carried out in two cases, in further two cases laparoscopic appendectomy, and in one case laparoscopic partial caecum resection was done. The hystological examinations showed appendiceal mucocele with no malignancy demonstrated. All patients recovered without complications, they were discharged from hospital on postoperative day five. The patients have been disease free after a 6-30 month follow-up period. We concluded that laparoscopy is a recommended method for the surgery of appendiceal mucocele.