Use of percutaneous thread loop to hold the vermiform appendix during laparoscopic appendectomy

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Techniques
• Gastrointestinal Surgery

Background:

• Laparoscopic appendectomy offers advantages over open procedures, but stump closure can be challenging.
• A three-port technique for intracorporeal knot tying in laparoscopic appendectomy presents difficulties in manipulating the appendix.
• A percutaneous thread loop was introduced to address these challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the advantage of using a percutaneous thread loop in laparoscopic appendectomy.
• To compare the efficacy and safety of laparoscopic appendectomy with and without a percutaneous loop.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study was conducted over 18 months.
• 66 patients undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy were randomly divided into two groups: non-loop and loop.
• Outcomes measured included operative time, postoperative hospital stay, and complications.

Main Results:

• The study included 66 patients (32 non-loop, 34 loop), with a mean age of 27.89 years; 62% were female.
• Mean operating time was slightly less in the loop group, though not statistically significant.
• No significant differences were observed in postoperative hospital stay or complication rates between the groups.

Conclusions:

• The percutaneous loop simplifies appendix handling during intracorporeal knot tying in laparoscopic appendectomy.
• Its use may reduce operative time and obviate the need for a fourth port.
• The percutaneous loop technique is a safe and effective adjunct to laparoscopic appendectomy without increased morbidity.