Laparoscopic appendectomy versus laparoscopic assisted appendectomy: a hospital based comparative study

ABSTRACT

Background: Laparoscopic appendectomy is more expensive and time consuming as compared to open technique. On the other hand, laparoscopic assisted appendectomy has the advantages of both the open and laparoscopic methods.Methods: This was a prospective comparative study of patients that underwent appendectomy by laparoscopic or laparoscopic assisted techniques.Results: A total of 40 patients were selected for the study. Standard laparoscopic technique was performed in 20 patients and laparoscopic assisted appendectomy was performed in 20 patients. The average operating time was 25.4±15 minutes in laparoscopic assisted appendectomy while it was 46.20±10.90 minutes in standard laparoscopic appendectomy which was statistically significant. Mean hospital stay in group A was 2.70±0.70 and in group B it was 2.10±0.70 which was not statistically significant.Conclusions: The laparoscopic-assisted method of appendix removal can be performed as efficiently as laparoscopically. It is fast and easy to perform, and it is expected to decrease the overall cost of laparoscopic appendectomy.