Prospective randomized multicentre study of laparoscopic versus open appendicectomy

Background: A prospective randomized multicentre study was performed to com pare the outcome of laparoscopic and open appendicectomy in patients with s uspected acute appendicitis. Methods: A total of 523 patients was randomized, but because of 23 withdraw als the outcome in 500 patients is reported, 244 in the laparoscopic group and 256 in the open group. Results: Patients having laparoscopic appendicectomy recovered more quickly than those having open surgery (13 versus 21 days, P < 0.001). There was n o significant difference in duration of sick leave after operation (laparos copic group 11 days versus open group 14 days). Postoperative pain (at 24 h , 7 days and 14 days) was less after laparoscopic operations and a function al index 1 week after operation was more favourable in these patients (P < 0.001). Operating time was significantly longer in the laparoscopic group ( 60 versus 35 min, P < 0.01). Hospital stay and complications did not differ between the groups. Thirty laparoscopic procedures (12 per cent) were conv erted to open appendicectomy. Conclusion: Laparoscopic appendicectomy is as safe as open appendicectomy a nd has the advantage of allowing a quicker recovery.