ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE:

Retrospective analysis of laparoscopic appendectomies in our institution for clinical approach, diagnostic methods and pathology results. We didn’t aim to compare open appendectomy to laparoscopic procedure.

METHODS:

Laparoscopic appendectomies performed in our institution between March 2006 and April 2008 were examined for demographic characteristics, preoperative observation time, preoperative white blood cell count, ultrasound and abdominal CT findings, operative time, conversion rate to open procedure, length of hospital stay, pathological results, wound infection, development of intraabdominal abscess and long term follow up results

RESULTS:

There were total of 132 laparoscopic appendectomies during this period. Male -female ratios and demographic results were all similar. The findings are shown in table 1 and table 2. Mean age of perforated appendicitis was significantly higher than mean age of the normal appendix cases. The lengths of the preoperative observation times, operation times and hospitalization times were all remarkable high, but statistically not significant, compared to the normal appendix cases. Average WBC counts of perforated and acute appendicitis cases were significantly higher than normal appendix cases. The diagnostic sensitivities of USG and CT scans were both high, but their specificity were low. In our series there were no major complications or intraabdominal abscesses.

CONCLUSION:

Laparoscopic appendectomy is a safe and short operation with minimal complications, short hospital stay and may be used in perforated appendicitis as well. Communication and feedback to radiologists may improve diagnostic accuracy of USG and abdominal CT. WBC counts are still essential and important. Uncertain cases should be observed for longer periods, especially young females.