Single-port laparoscopic appendectomy for acute appendicitis during pregnancy

Area of Science:

• Surgical Innovation
• Obstetric Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Procedures

Background:

• Acute appendicitis is a common surgical emergency in pregnancy.
• Minimally invasive surgery, including single-port laparoscopic surgery (SPLS), aims to reduce trauma and improve cosmetic results.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and safety of single-port laparoscopic surgery (SPLS) for treating acute appendicitis in pregnant patients.

Main Methods:

• A study included 12 pregnant patients undergoing single-port laparoscopic appendectomy for acute appendicitis between September 2014 and May 2016.
• Data collected included gestational age, operative details, outcomes, and complications.

Main Results:

• All 12 operations were completed safely, with a median gestational age of 16 weeks.
• The median incision length was 2 cm, with a median operation time of 60 minutes.
• Post-operative complications included wound bleeding, surgical site infections, and one case of abortion.

Conclusions:

• Single-port laparoscopic surgery (SPLS) appendectomy is a feasible and safe option for pregnant patients with acute appendicitis.
• The procedure demonstrates potential for reduced surgical trauma and improved cosmetic outcomes in this population.