Inflammatory response is no different in children randomized to laparoscopic or open appendectomy

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Surgical Inflammation
• Minimally Invasive Procedures

Background:

• Previous research indicates lower inflammatory response with laparoscopic appendectomy versus open surgery.
• Understanding inflammatory markers aids in assessing surgical trauma and recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare clinical outcomes and serum immunoinflammatory markers in children undergoing laparoscopic versus open appendectomy for nonperforated appendicitis.
• Evaluate differences in inflammatory response and patient recovery between surgical approaches.

Main Methods:

• Children with appendicitis were randomized to laparoscopic or open appendectomy.
• Serum levels of inflammatory markers (e.g., CRP, IL-6, TNF-α) and clinical data were collected preoperatively and at multiple time points postoperatively.
• Statistical analysis included Student's t-test and Mann-Whitney U test, with significance set at P < 0.05.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were observed in demographic variables, body temperature, hematocrit, leukocyte count, or serum inflammatory markers between the two groups.
• The average postoperative length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the laparoscopic group (4.3 days) compared to the open group (6.2 days).

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic and open appendectomy for nonperforated appendicitis do not differ in their impact on measured inflammatory parameters.
• Despite similar inflammatory responses, laparoscopic appendectomy leads to earlier patient discharge from the hospital.