[Laparoscopic versus conventional appendectomy: a prospective randomized study]

Abstract

The discussion about laparoscopic appendectomy has increased since the introduction of this method. Randomized comparisons are still feasible, whereas this cannot be stated for other laparoscopic procedures (e.g., laparoscopic cholecystectomy). This randomized controlled trial included 170 patients. Open appendectomy was employed in 83 patients, and 87 were treated laparoscopically. The treatment groups were comparable regarding age, sex, Broca index, ASA classification, preliminary operations, and preoperative leucocytes. No statistically significant differences could be found with respect to surgical and general complications, operating time, consumption of analgesics and antibiotics, and return to work. The analysis revealed a statistically significant shorter hospital stay, a shorter time until return to normal physical activity, and a shorter duration of complaints for the laparoscopic group. We were unable to demonstrate any statistically significant advantage in using the open procedure.