Our Summary

This research paper is comparing two different types of surgeries used to treat severe cases of appendicitis: laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) and open appendectomy (OA). They did this by looking back at the records of 179 patients who had one of these surgeries at their hospital between 2011 and 2017.

The study found that the laparoscopic surgery, which uses smaller incisions and a camera, took a bit longer than the traditional open surgery. However, patients who had the laparoscopic surgery stayed in the hospital for less time after the operation. Both types of surgeries allowed patients to start eating again at about the same time after the operation.

The study also found that there were fewer complications after surgery in the group that had the laparoscopic surgery compared to the group that had the traditional surgery.

Based on these findings, the researchers suggest that, when possible, doctors should use the laparoscopic method for treating severe cases of appendicitis.

FAQs

  1. What are the two types of surgeries compared in this research paper for treating severe appendicitis?
  2. Did the study find any difference in recovery time between laparoscopic and open appendectomy?
  3. What recommendations did the researchers make based on their findings about laparoscopic and open appendectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laparoscopic appendectomy is that it typically results in a faster recovery time and fewer complications compared to open appendectomy. Patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery may experience less pain and scarring, and are often able to return to their normal activities sooner. It is important to follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for laparoscopic appendectomy are those with severe cases of appendicitis who are otherwise healthy and have no significant comorbidities. This is because laparoscopic surgery is less invasive, resulting in less post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays, and fewer complications compared to open surgery. Additionally, patients who are recommended for laparoscopic appendectomy are likely to have a quicker recovery time and return to their normal activities sooner.

Timeline

Before laparoscopic appendectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of appendicitis such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as blood tests, urine tests, and imaging studies (CT scan or ultrasound) to confirm the diagnosis of appendicitis.
  3. Patient is admitted to the hospital for surgery.

After laparoscopic appendectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes laparoscopic appendectomy surgery, which involves making small incisions and using a camera to remove the appendix.
  2. Patient stays in the hospital for a shorter period of time compared to open appendectomy.
  3. Patient is able to start eating again shortly after the surgery.
  4. Patient experiences fewer complications after surgery compared to open appendectomy.
  5. Patient is discharged from the hospital and continues to recover at home.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with laparoscopic appendectomy compared to open appendectomy?

  2. How long does the recovery process typically take for laparoscopic appendectomy compared to open appendectomy?

  3. Will I have smaller scars with laparoscopic appendectomy compared to open appendectomy?

  4. How experienced is the surgical team in performing laparoscopic appendectomy?

  5. What are the long-term outcomes for patients who undergo laparoscopic appendectomy compared to open appendectomy?

  6. Are there any specific factors that make me a better candidate for laparoscopic appendectomy over open appendectomy?

  7. How does the cost of laparoscopic appendectomy compare to open appendectomy?

  8. Will I need any additional follow-up care or monitoring after undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy?

  9. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider besides laparoscopic appendectomy and open appendectomy for severe cases of appendicitis?

  10. How soon can I return to my normal activities after undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy compared to open appendectomy?

Reference

Authors: Takami T, Yamaguchi T, Yoshitake H, Hatano K, Kataoka N, Tomita M, Makimoto S. Journal: Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg. 2020 Aug;46(4):847-851. doi: 10.1007/s00068-019-01086-5. Epub 2019 Feb 2. PMID: 30710176