[Initial experience with laparoscopic appendectomy]

On the basis of analysis of their personal experience and the literature data, the authors claim that appendectomy under control of a laparoscope is an alternative to the traditional operation. Laparoscopic appendectomy was conducted in patients with acute and chronic appendicitis. The indication for appendectomy in chronic form of the disease is determined by the results of complete clinical examination and laparoscopic inspection of the region of the right iliac fossa, which is undertaken before each operative intervention. The authors performed laparoscopic appendectomy with the use of a monitor which made it possible for the operating team to watch the operation. The base of the process was ligated with an endoligature or compressed with clips, and then cutoff by means of high frequency current. The stump of the process was not buried in the cupula of the cecum. Laparoscopic appendectomy for chronic appendicitis was performed, as a rule, as a simultaneous intervention in laparoscopic cholecystectomy or operations undertaken for other diseases. The authors did not encounter in the postoperative period any complications associated with appendectomy. The postoperative period was somewhat easier than after the traditional intervention. The motor activity of the patients was completely restored as early as the second-third day. Experience shows competence of such operations.