Related Experiment Videos
Laparoscopic versus open appendectomy in children--comparative study of 403 cases
Summary
Laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) is less traumatic with fewer postoperative complications than open appendectomy (OA) in children. While LA has more operative risks, these decrease with surgeon experience, making it a promising alternative.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Gastrointestinal Surgery
Background:
- Open appendectomy (OA) remains a widely accepted and secure surgical technique.
- Laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) has faced challenges in widespread adoption despite potential benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the outcomes of laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) versus open appendectomy (OA) in pediatric patients.
- To evaluate operative and postoperative complications, anesthesia time, and hospital stay for both procedures.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective comparison of 200 laparoscopic appendectomies and 203 open appendectomies in children and adolescents.
- Data collected included operative findings, complications, anesthesia duration, and hospital stay.
Main Results:
- Laparoscopic appendectomy identified 11% of previously unknown peritoneal adhesions.
- Operative complications were higher in LA (5% vs. 1%), but postoperative complications were significantly lower (1.5% vs. 10.8%).
- LA resulted in shorter hospital stays (4 days vs. 6.4 days) and fewer additional hospital days due to complications.
Conclusions:
- Open appendectomy is faster with fewer immediate operative complications.
- Laparoscopic appendectomy offers advantages including less trauma, better visualization, efficient lavage, and reduced postoperative morbidity.
- Laparoscopic appendectomy is a viable and beneficial option for pediatric appendicitis, with operative risks diminishing with surgeon experience.