Our Summary

This study looked at potential complications that can happen during a specific type of surgery known as a laparoscopic appendectomy, which is a procedure to remove the appendix. The researchers were specifically interested in the technique used to close off the area where the appendix was attached (known as the stump), using a manual loop of sliding extracorporeal suture knot. They looked at data from patients who had this surgery performed by the same surgeon from 2014 to 2020.

They found that out of 120 patients, 9 of them developed a surgical site infection (a common risk after any type of surgery), which was treated with antibiotics and keeping the wound clean. Only one patient developed an intra-abdominal abscess (a pocket of pus inside the abdomen), which required the patient to be readmitted for further treatment. There were no cases of stump leaks (where the closed-off area leaks fluid).

The researchers concluded that this technique for closing off the stump is safe, reliable and cost-effective. They also suggest that it can be safely taught to surgical trainees.

FAQs

  1. What is a laparoscopic appendectomy and what was the focus of this study?
  2. What complications were observed among the patients who underwent this procedure and how were they treated?
  3. What was the conclusion of the study regarding the safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of the technique used in the laparoscopic appendectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about laparoscopic appendectomy is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to reduce the risk of complications such as surgical site infections. This may include keeping the incision site clean and dry, taking prescribed antibiotics as directed, and avoiding strenuous activities until cleared by the surgeon. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and address any concerns promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for laparoscopic appendectomy include those with acute appendicitis, uncomplicated appendicitis, and some cases of complicated appendicitis. Laparoscopic appendectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that offers advantages such as shorter recovery time, less pain, and reduced risk of postoperative complications compared to traditional open appendectomy. Patients who are young, fit, and have a low risk of complications are usually good candidates for laparoscopic appendectomy. However, the decision on the type of surgery is ultimately made by the surgeon based on the individual patient’s condition and needs.

Timeline

Before the laparoscopic appendectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of appendicitis such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
  2. Patient visits a healthcare provider for evaluation and diagnosis.
  3. Patient undergoes imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan to confirm appendicitis.
  4. Patient is scheduled for a laparoscopic appendectomy procedure.

After the laparoscopic appendectomy:

  1. Patient is prepped for surgery and undergoes the laparoscopic appendectomy procedure.
  2. Patient wakes up in the recovery room and is monitored for any immediate complications.
  3. Patient is discharged from the hospital within a few days, depending on their recovery.
  4. Patient may experience some pain and discomfort at the incision sites, which can be managed with pain medication.
  5. Patient follows post-operative instructions such as avoiding heavy lifting and maintaining a healthy diet.
  6. Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for a post-operative check-up to ensure proper healing.
  7. Patient resumes normal activities as they continue to recover from the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential complications of a laparoscopic appendectomy?
  2. What is the specific technique used to close off the stump after removing the appendix?
  3. How many surgeries have you performed using this technique?
  4. What is the success rate of this technique in preventing complications such as stump leaks?
  5. How long is the recovery time expected to be after a laparoscopic appendectomy?
  6. Are there any specific post-operative instructions or restrictions I should follow?
  7. What signs or symptoms should I watch for that may indicate a complication?
  8. Will I need any follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  9. Are there any factors that may increase my risk of complications during the surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider for appendicitis?

Reference

Authors: Ramesh P, Saeed A, Nusrat M, Batool S, Khan H, Murtaza G. Journal: J Pak Med Assoc. 2022 Feb;72(Suppl 1)(2):S10-S15. doi: 10.47391/JPMA.AKU-03. PMID: 35202362