Sutureless Laparoscopic Appendectomy: Bipolar Maryland Versus Endoloop Technique. A Randomized Controlled Trial

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Technology
• Gastrointestinal Surgery

Background:

• Sutureless laparoscopic appendectomy utilizes energy devices for mesoappendix dissection and appendix base sealing, avoiding clips or ligatures.
• The study investigated the feasibility and safety of using conventional bipolar Maryland forceps for sutureless laparoscopic appendectomy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of conventional bipolar Maryland forceps in sutureless laparoscopic appendectomy.
• To compare outcomes between endoloop and bipolar Maryland forceps in laparoscopic appendectomy.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 180 patients with uncomplicated acute appendicitis.
• Patients were randomized into two groups: one undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy with endoloop, the other with conventional bipolar electrosurgery using Maryland forceps.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in mean operating time (29.36 min vs. 23.10 min) or excised appendix diameter (7.27 mm vs. 7.48 mm) between the endoloop and bipolar Maryland groups.
• No significant postoperative complications were observed in either group.

Conclusions:

• Sealing the appendiceal base with conventional bipolar electrosurgery (Maryland forceps) is a safe and feasible option for sutureless laparoscopic appendectomy.
• This technique can be conveniently employed without significant complications.