Efficacy of laparoscopy in complicated appendicitis.

Area of Science:

• Surgical Innovation
• Gastrointestinal Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Procedures

Background:

• Laparoscopic appendectomy is standard for uncomplicated appendicitis.
• Its efficacy in complicated appendicitis requires further evaluation.
• This study assesses laparoscopic appendectomy for complicated cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) versus open appendectomy (OA) for complicated appendicitis.
• To compare outcomes including operative time, infection rates, and hospital stay.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study of 110 patients with perforated or gangrenous appendicitis.
• Patients underwent either laparoscopic appendectomy (LA, n=49) or open appendectomy (OA, n=61).
• Key outcomes: operative time, conversion rate, wound infections, intra-abdominal abscess, pain, and hospital stay.

Main Results:

• LA had a longer operative time (98 min vs. 79 min) but resulted in less analgesic use.
• LA significantly reduced hospital stay (3 days vs. 6 days) and wound infection rates (8.2% vs. 24.6%).
• Intra-abdominal abscess rates were lower with LA (8.2% vs. 22.9%), with no mortality in either group.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic appendectomy is a feasible and safe option for complicated appendicitis.
• LA is associated with reduced postoperative pain, fewer infectious complications, and shorter hospital stays compared to OA.
• Minimally invasive surgery offers advantages for patients with complex appendicitis.