Our Summary

This research paper looked at two different ways of performing a laparoscopic appendectomy, a type of surgery that uses small incisions and a camera to remove the appendix. This is often done when someone has acute appendicitis, which is a severe or sudden inflammation of the appendix.

The two methods compared were standard laparoscopic appendectomy (SLA), which involves making small incisions at different places on the abdomen, and single-dermatome laparoscopic appendectomy (SDLA), where all the incisions are made in the same area. The study was designed to see which method resulted in less pain after surgery and which one patients preferred.

Patients who had this surgery between May and December 2019 were randomly chosen to have either the SLA or SDLA procedure. After surgery, the patients’ pain levels were measured at different times and they were asked how satisfied they were with the procedure.

The results showed that patients who had the SDLA procedure experienced less pain in the first few hours after surgery than those who had the SLA procedure. Also, patients who had the SDLA procedure were more satisfied with their surgery than those who had the SLA procedure. The paper suggests that the SDLA method might be a better way to perform a laparoscopic appendectomy.

FAQs

  1. What is the difference between standard laparoscopic appendectomy (SLA) and single-dermatome laparoscopic appendectomy (SDLA)?
  2. Which method of laparoscopic appendectomy resulted in less pain after surgery according to the study?
  3. Were patients more satisfied with the standard laparoscopic appendectomy (SLA) or the single-dermatome laparoscopic appendectomy (SDLA) procedure?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laparoscopic appendectomy is to inquire about the possibility of having a single-dermatome laparoscopic appendectomy (SDLA) procedure, as it may result in less post-operative pain and higher patient satisfaction compared to the standard laparoscopic appendectomy (SLA) method. It is important to discuss this option with your surgeon to determine the best approach for your individual case.

Suitable For

Typically, patients who are recommended for a laparoscopic appendectomy are those who present with symptoms of acute appendicitis, such as abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting. These patients may have been diagnosed through physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scan.

Laparoscopic appendectomy is often recommended for patients who are otherwise healthy and have no significant medical conditions that would increase the risk of surgery. The minimally invasive nature of the procedure makes it suitable for a wide range of patients, including children, pregnant women, and elderly individuals.

However, in some cases where the appendix has ruptured or there are complications such as abscess formation, a traditional open appendectomy may be necessary. It is important for patients to discuss their individual circumstances with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.

Timeline

Before the surgery:

  • Patient presents with symptoms of acute appendicitis, such as abdominal pain, nausea, and fever.
  • Patient undergoes physical examination, blood tests, and imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis.
  • Surgery is scheduled once appendicitis is confirmed.
  • Patient receives pre-operative instructions and anesthesia is administered before the surgery.

During the surgery:

  • Small incisions are made in the abdomen and a camera is inserted to visualize the appendix.
  • The appendix is removed using specialized surgical instruments.
  • The incisions are closed with sutures or surgical glue.

After the surgery:

  • Patient is monitored in the recovery room before being transferred to a hospital room.
  • Pain medication is administered as needed to manage post-operative pain.
  • Patient is encouraged to walk and resume normal activities as soon as possible.
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient’s recovery and remove any sutures or staples.

Overall, laparoscopic appendectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that offers faster recovery times and less post-operative pain compared to traditional open surgery. The choice of surgical technique may impact the patient’s experience and satisfaction with the procedure.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about a laparoscopic appendectomy include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a laparoscopic appendectomy?
  2. How long will the surgery take and how long is the recovery time?
  3. Will I need to stay in the hospital overnight or is this a same-day procedure?
  4. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  5. How many incisions will be made and where will they be located?
  6. Will there be any scarring after the surgery?
  7. What kind of post-operative pain management will be provided?
  8. What restrictions or limitations will I have after the surgery?
  9. When can I return to normal activities, such as work or exercise?
  10. How successful is a laparoscopic appendectomy in treating acute appendicitis compared to traditional open surgery methods?

Reference

Authors: Ergin A, İşcan Y, Çiyiltepe H, Fersahoğlu MM, Esen Bulut N, Taşdelen İ. Journal: Surg Laparosc Endosc Percutan Tech. 2022 Aug 1;32(4):415-419. doi: 10.1097/SLE.0000000000001070. PMID: 35797643