LAPAROSCOPIC APPENDECTOMY

Recent reports have suggested that laparoscopic appendicectomy (LA) co nfers some advantages over open appendicectomy (OA). In a prospective study we compared the results of the first 75 patients undergoing LA w ith 50 patients undergoing OA. Post-operative recovery, complications, and return to normal activities were compared in the two groups. Alth ough the overall complications were similar in the two groups, three p atients developed major post-operative complications following LA. The se included small bowel perforation due to a diathermy injury, right i liac fossa haematoma, and small bowel obstruction. Hospital stay was s ignificantly reduced after LA. Follow-up demonstrated a shorter conval escent period at home and faster return to normal activity. In conclus ion this study demonstrates that LA is superior to OA in terms of hosp ital stay and return to normal activity. However, in less experienced hands the potential hazards of significant complications remain a conc ern. The presence of one major complication related to the laparoscopi c technique in this study highlights the importance of training if the widespread introduction of this approach is to be advocated.