Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing laparoscopic and open appendectomy

We performed a meta-analysis to determine whether laparoscopic or open appe ndectomy gives better outcomes for patients with suspected acute appendicit is. Studies were selected from the MEDLINE database, personal files, and me eting abstracts. Eleven of 21 randomized controlled trials were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled effect size estimates were calculated using a ra ndom effects model. Laparoscopic appendectomy reduced time to full function ing by 5.48 days (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.70 to 7.26; p < 0.001), im proved postoperative pain at 24 hours measured by a visual analog scale fro m 0 to 10 by 1.19 points (95% CI -2.14 to -0.24 points; p = 0.014), and dec reased the absolute risk for wound infection by 3.2% (95% CI -5.6% to -0. 8 %; p = 0.009). Operating time was increased by 17.12 min (95% CI 14.19 to 2 0.03; p < 0.0001). There was no difference between the two surgeries for le ngth of hospital stay, readmission rate, and intra-abdominal abscess format ion. Laparoscopic appendectomy improves patient outcomes.