Abstract

NAVARRETE, Salvador et al. Apendicectomía por laparoscopia en la apendicitis aguda complicada. Gac Méd Caracas [online]. 2002, vol.110, n.2, pp.217-221. ISSN 0367-4762.

SUMMARY An analysis of our experience in laparoscopic appendectomy for complicated acute appendicitis is presented. From June 1995 until March 2001, 129 laparoscopic appendectomies for acute appendicitis were performed. 29 patients, 12 female and 17 male, in whom the procedure was performed in an advanced stage of the illness (gangrene, perforation, and/or the presence of purulent material in the abdominal cavity) were included in this study. A combination of antibiotics was given (Cefoperazone-Sulbactum or Sultamicine, plus Metrodinazole) as well as drainage of the abdominal cavity in cases of purulent peritonitis. 28 laparoscopic appendectomies were performed. One case (3.4 %) was converted to open surgery. The male/female ratio was 1.4:1. The average operative time was 60 minutes (45 to 120 minutes). No intraoperative complications ocurred. The average hospitalization time was 2.5 days (1 to 4 days). One minor infectious complication appeared (3.4 %). No deaths ocurred in the series. Our results show that laparoscopic appendectomy is a feasible, effective and secure procedure in patients with complicated acute appendicitis. Its implementation allows reduction in the frequency and severity of infectious complications as well as the hospitalization time in these patients.

Keywords : Laparoscopic appendectomy; Complicated acute appendicitis..