LAPAROSCOPIC TREATMENT OF APPENDICOVESICAL FISTULA - A CASE-REPORT

Appendicovesical fistula is an uncommon type of enterovesical fistula and a rare complication of unrecognized appendicitis. Only 100 cases h ave been reported previously in the literature, the vast majority bein g in young male patients. Our case is that of a middle-aged woman and is the first in which the diagnosis is made and surgical treatment ren dered using a laparoscopic approach. Familiarity with diagnostic lapar oscopy adds a powerful toot to the evaluation of patients with difficu lt or unusual surgical problems. Subsequent implementation of minimall y invasive techniques for surgical therapy when appropriate can signif icantly decrease hospitalization and convalescence.