G. Simkhada, K. Koirala, R. Mukhia
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Appendectomy is the most common emergency surgery. There are several studies being published providing conflicting results comparing laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) and open appendectomy (OA). The aim of the study was to compare the outcomes of LA and OA in terms of operative time, post-operative pain, analgesic required, length of post-operative hospital stay, and post-operative complication like wound infections.
Methods: Retrospective data from medical records of the patients who had undergone appendectomy for acute appendicitis in KIST Medical College from January 2016 to May 2018 were reviewed. Two groups LA and OA were analyzed and compared.
Results: Of 200 cases, 110 had undergone OA and 90 had undergone LA. The mean age of patients in OA group was 26.53 ± 8.26 years and 24.45 ± 9.27 years in LA group. The mean duration of operation was less in OA group than in LA group (47.25 ± 21.35 vs. 63.24 ± 23.78 min). The mean duration of post-operative hospital stay was 3.65 ± 1.23 days in OA group and 3.04 ± 1.78 days in LA group. There were 12 (10.9%) wound infection cases in OA group and 3 (3.3%) cases in LA group.
Conclusion: LA is safe and effective approach as compared to OA. It has advantages of shorter post-operative hospital stay, less post-operative pain, and earlier return to normal activities.
Key words: Acute appendicitis, appendectomy, laparoscopic appendectomy