A comparison of polymer clips and endoloop applications for securing the appendiceal stump during laparoscopic surgery in children

Abstract

Introduction: In this study, for the first time in children a polymer clip and endoloop (EL) for securing an appendiceal stump have been prospectively correlated and evaluated radiologically.

Methods: Forty-nine patients aged 1 to 15 years were operated upon by the same surgeon for acute or perforated appendicitis between May 2008 and May 2009. The appendiceal stump was ligated by an EL or polymer clip. Patients were radiologically evaluated during the postoperative period.

Results: In the EL group, the mean operating time for perforated appendicitis was recorded as 57.40 minutes and in nonperforated appendicitis as 39.37 minutes, respectively. In the clips-applied group, these periods were 48.23 and 34.72 minutes, respectively. Clip application is 3 times cheaper than EL.

Conclusions: Polymer clip is an instrument that is cheaper, safe, easily applicable, and takes less time for securing appendiceal stumps compared with EL.