[Safety and efficacy of laparoscopic approach for widespread appendicular peritonitis]

To analyze treatment outcomes in patients with acute appendicitis complicated by widespread peritonitis.

The study included 165 patients acute appendicitis complicated by widespread peritonitis. Inclusion criteria: acute appendicitis complicated by widespread peritonitis MIP grade 1-2 in reactive or toxic phase (grading system by Simonyan K.S.), abdominal cavity index ≤16. Exclusion criteria: MIP grade 3, terminal phase, abdominal cavity index ≥17.

Analysis of postoperative data revealed no correlation between surgical approach and incidence of postoperative intra-abdominal abscesses and infiltrates. In the main group, intra-abdominal abscesses occurred in 4.9% of patients (n=5), infiltrates - 12.8% (n=13). In the control group, these parameters were 4.6% (n=2) and 18.2% (n=8), respectively. We have developed and introduced into clinical practice a differentiated approach to surgical treatment of widespread appendicular peritonitis based on laparoscopic data. Abdominal cavity was intraoperatively assessed. The proposed method included 5 criteria with establishment of appropriate points (min 3, max 14). In case of total score 3-8, laparoscopic approach was preferred. Overall score 9-11 required laparoscopic surgery with subsequent elective repeated laparoscopy, ≥12 scores - intraoperative conversion and open surgery. Thus, subject to the rules of surgical intervention, the number of intra-abdominal complications between laparoscopic and open methods is equalized.

The developed differentiated surgical strategy for patients with appendicular peritonitis is effective and reduces the incidence of wound infection, extra-abdominal complications, and hospital-stay, as well as contributes to early rehabilitation of patients.