Background: Laparoscopic appendicectomy (LA) is the preferred approach in uncomplicated appendicitis. However, in patients with complicated appendicitis (CA), the best approach is still unclear.
Aim of the work: A prospective randomized study to compare the outcomes of LA and OA in management of CA regarding their efficacy, safety and postoperative complications.
Patients and methods: 60 patients, admitted with a diagnosis of CA were divided into two groups, LA group and OA group, with 30 patients in each group. All patients were monitored for early and late post-operative complications with follow up in the out-patient clinics up to 12 month post-operative.
Results: LA group had decreased incidence of postoperative surgical site infections (SSI) with comparable results regarding operative time, length of hospital stay, rates of hospital readmission and the need of re-operation. LA demonstrated considerable significant advantages over OA in CA regarding additional outcomes including decreased postoperative pain & increased cosmesis satisfaction.
Conclusion: LA can be safely adopted in CA and can be performed safely with a low incidence of infectious complications.