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Imaging in pediatric appendicitis is key to a low normal appendix percentage: a national audit on the outcome of appendectomy for appendicitis in children. Pediatr Surg Int 2018; 34. [PMID: 29523946 PMCID: PMC5899113 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-018-4244-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE A laparoscopic approach for emergency appendectomy is increasingly used, in pediatric patients as well. The objective of this study is to audit the current state of diagnostic work-up, surgical techniques and its outcome in children with acute appendicitis. METHODS A prospective consecutive observational cohort study was carried out in a 2-month study period. All patients under 18 years that were operated for suspected acute appendicitis were included. Primary outcome was the infectious complication rate after open and laparoscopic approach; secondary outcomes were preoperative use of imaging and post-operative predictive value of imaging, normal appendix rate and children with a postoperative ileus. RESULTS A total of 541 children were operated for suspected acute appendicitis in 62 Dutch hospitals. Preoperative imaging was used in 98.9% of children. The normal appendix rate was 3.1%. In 523 children an appendectomy was performed. Laparoscopy was used in 61% of the patients and conversion rate was 1.7%. Complicated appendicitis was diagnosed in 29.4% of children. Overall 30-day complication rate was 11.9% and similar after open and laparoscopic. No difference was found in superficial surgical site infections, nor in intra-abdominal abscesses between the open and laparoscopic approach. Complicated appendicitis is an independent risk factor for infectious complications. CONCLUSION The laparoscopic approach is most frequently used, except for young children. Superficial surgical site infections are more frequent after open surgery only in patients with complicated appendicitis. The normal appendix rate is low, most likely because of routine preoperative imaging.
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Liu Y, Seipel C, Lopez ME, Nuchtern JG, Brandt ML, Fallon SC, Manyang PA, Tjia IM, Baijal RG, Watcha MF. A retrospective study of multimodal analgesic treatment after laparoscopic appendectomy in children. Paediatr Anaesth 2013; 23:1187-92. [PMID: 24112856 DOI: 10.1111/pan.12271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Laparoscopic appendectomy is a common emergency pediatric surgery procedure accompanied by substantial pain (pain scores >4 for >60% of the time) in 33% of these patients. We introduced a bundle of pain management interventions including local anesthetic infiltration at the incision site, intravenous (IV) opioids by patient-controlled analgesia (PCA), and scheduled doses of IV ketorolac and oral acetaminophen/hydrocodone. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effect of these pain management interventions on pain control after laparoscopic appendectomy. METHODS We retrospectively studied pain in 206 children above 7 years of age undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy from December 2011 to February 2012 at our institution. We extracted data on patient demographics, duration of anesthesia and surgery, intraoperative opioids, local anesthetic infiltration, surgical procedure reports, along with pain scores, postoperative PCA use, and opioid-related complications and hospital stays. Patients were divided into two groups - simple appendicitis without peritonitis and appendicitis with generalized peritonitis. RESULTS The incidence of substantial pain when the multimodal regimen was used was 12%, which is significantly lower than earlier reports (Fisher's exact test P < 0.001). Patients with generalized peritonitis experienced more pain, consumed more opioids, had more unmet PCA demands, and a higher incidence of respiratory depression compared with those with simple appendicitis. CONCLUSION The multimodal regimen of local anesthetic infiltration, opioid by PCA, NSAIDs, and oral acetaminophen/hydrocodone reduced the incidence of substantial pain. Additional studies are required to identify subgroups of patients with minimal opioid requirements who can benefit from modifications of this regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Pediatric Anesthesiology, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Tomecka MJ, Bortsov AV, Miller NR, Solano N, Narron J, McNaull PP, Ricketts KJ, Lupa CM, McLean SA. Substantial postoperative pain is common among children undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy. Paediatr Anaesth 2012; 22:130-5. [PMID: 21958060 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9592.2011.03711.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Laparoscopic appendectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures performed in children. However, to our knowledge, the postoperative pain experience of children undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy has never been described. In this study, we assessed the postoperative pain experience of children undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy. METHODS A retrospective chart review of children aged 9-17 years undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy at a large academic medical center from 2004 to 2010 was performed. Demographic and clinical characteristics and self-reported pain scores (0-10 numeric rating scale) during hospitalization were abstracted from the medical record. Pain scores ≥4 were classified as moderate or severe. If ≥60% of pain ratings were moderate or severe during a specified time period (e.g., particular postoperative day), then the child was defined as experiencing substantial pain during that time. Pain outcomes were summarized using descriptive statistics. Secondary analyses assessed the predictors of substantial postoperative pain. RESULTS Hundred and eighty-six children underwent laparoscopic appendectomy during the study period. One in three children experienced substantial postoperative pain on the day of surgery, and one in five children continued to have substantial pain the next day. Commonly available clinical and demographic characteristics were poor predictors of substantial postoperative pain. CONCLUSION These preliminary data suggest that substantial postoperative pain is common in children undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy. More studies of postoperative pain outcomes among children undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy and other common pediatric surgical procedures are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maggie J Tomecka
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7455, USA.
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IPEG guidelines for appendectomy. J Laparoendosc Adv Surg Tech A 2009; 19 Suppl 1:vii-ix. [PMID: 19371152 DOI: 10.1089/lap.2009.9983.supp] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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Gillick J, Mohanan N, Das L, Puri P. Laparoscopic appendectomy after conservative management of appendix mass. Pediatr Surg Int 2008; 24:299-301. [PMID: 18197408 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-007-2103-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic appendicectomy following non-operative management of appendix mass in children. Medical records of 103 consecutive patients (61 males, 42 females) who underwent non-operative treatment of appendix mass followed by laparoscopic elective appendicectomy were examined. Their ages ranged from 2 years 5 months to 15 years (mean 8.3 years). All patients were treated conservatively by close observation, antibiotics and intravenous fluids. Once the child was fit for discharge laparoscopic elective appendicectomy was booked for 4-6 weeks later. Ninety-three children responded to the initial conservative treatment and were discharged after a mean hospital stay of 5.6 days (range 3-10 days). Ten (9.7%) did not respond to initial treatment and developed appendix abscess requiring drainage. Average hospital stay in the 97 patients who had laparoscopic elective appendicectomy was 2.5 days (range 1-5 days). Three patients developed complications after elective appendicectomy, a stitch abscess in one, paralytic ileus in one and wound infection in one. Histological examination revealed fibrosed or resolving appendicitis in 52, acute or subacute appendicitis in 24, carcinoid tumour in two and normal appendix in 19. Laparoscopic elective appendicectomy is a safe and effective method of treatment following conservative treatment of appendix mass. Not only does it make the dissection and resection of the appendix easier but it also has the added advantage of performing adhesiolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Gillick
- The Children's Research Centre, Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin, Dublin 12, Ireland
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Visnjic S. Transumbilical laparoscopically assisted appendectomy in children: high-tech low-budget surgery. Surg Endosc 2007; 22:1667-71. [PMID: 18074182 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-007-9680-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2007] [Revised: 08/30/2007] [Accepted: 10/03/2007] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Two different laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) techniques, one performed with staplers (LAS) and the other using loops (LAL), were compared with transumbilical laparoscopically assisted appendectomy (TULAA). METHODS A total of 72 children, 55 with a diagnosis of uncomplicated acute appendicitis and 17 with recurrent right lower abdominal pain, underwent operation during the period 2003-2006. The procedures used were: 34 LAS, 9 LAL, and 29 TULAA. Measured outcomes were operative time, postoperative complications, need for rescue analgesics, length of hospital stay, and procedure cost reflected by supplies used. The staplers, endoloops, clips, and sutures used to manage appendectomy were listed at current prices, summarized as number consumed per case, and compared. Data were analyzed by Fisher's exact test and the Mann-Whitney U-test where appropriate. Statistical significance was determined as p < 0.05. RESULTS Average price of materials used was 113.5 USD for LAS, 91 USD for LAL, and 14 USD for TULAA. Wound infections were recorded in two patients (4.6%) in the LA group and in four patients (13.7%) in the TULAA group (p = 0.17). One patient in the LAL group developed an abdominal abscess that was managed conservatively. Median operating time was 39 (24-66) min in the LA group versus 33 (25-55) min in the TULAA group (p < 0.05). Rescue analgesia was administered in 19/43 (44%) of LA patients and 9/29 (31%) of TULAA patients (p = 0.19). The length of hospital stay was 3.1 days for LA patients and 3.0 days for TULAA patients (p = 0.43). Two TULAA procedures (6.4%) were finished with additional port/s. CONCLUSIONS In this study, the cost of TULAA is 7.8 times lower than the cost of LA, 8.1 times lower than LAS, and 6.5 times lower than LAL. Higher cost of laparoscopy is solely attributable to the purchase price of the supplies used. Overall postoperative morbidity, the incidence of wound infection, the length of hospitalization, and the need for rescue analgesia did not show a statistical difference in comparing LA/TULAA. Operative time was shorter in the TULAA group. In terms of limited resources, TULAA could be the most appropriate minimally invasive technique for appendectomy in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Visnjic
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital Zagreb, Klaiceva 16, Zagreb, 10000, Croatia.
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Rai R, Chui CH, TR SP, Low Y, Yap TL, Jacobsen AS. Perforated Appendicitis in Children: Benefits of Early Laparoscopic Surgery. ANNALS OF THE ACADEMY OF MEDICINE, SINGAPORE 2007. [DOI: 10.47102/annals-acadmedsg.v36n4p277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: The aim of this study was to analyse the feasibility, safety and benefits of laparoscopic appendicectomy (LA) in comparison with open appendicectomy (OA) for perforated appendicitis (PA) in children.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of all consecutive cases of PA who underwent OA or LA between July 2001 and April 2004 was done. The patient demographics, duration of symptoms and operative findings were noted and the feasibility, safety and benefits of LA were analysed with respect to postoperative recovery and complications.
Results: One hundred and thirty-seven consecutive patients with PA underwent either OA (n =46) or LA (n = 91). Both groups were comparable with respect to patient demographics, duration of symptoms and operative findings. The mean operative time was 106.5 min (95% CI, 100.2 - 112.8) in the LA group and 92.8 min (95% CI, 82.9-102.7) in the OA group (P = 0.02). The return to afebrile status after surgery was significantly faster in the LA group [mean, 45.4 hours (95% CI, 36.8-54)] than the OA group [mean, 77 hours (95% CI 56.7-97.3)] (P = 0.007). The mean duration for postoperative opioid analgesia was 2.5 days (95% CI, 2.2-2.7) for LA and 3.2 days (95% CI, 2.9- 3.6) for OA (P = 0.001). The resumption of oral feeds after surgery was at 3.1 days (95% CI, 2.8-3.3) for LA and 3.7 days (3.4-4.1) for OA (P = 0.005). The length of the hospital stay was shorter in the LA group [mean, 6.5 days (95% CI, 6.1-6.8)] as compared to that of the OA group [mean, 8.2 days (95% CI, 7.1-9.3)] (P = 0.006). Postoperative complications included wound infection, adhesive intestinal obstruction and pelvic abscess formation. The incidence of these complications was 5.6% in the LA group and 19.6% in the OA group (P = 0.01). Nine patients (9.8%) needed conversion to open surgery in the LA group. None of the LA patients had wound infection.
Conclusion: LA is feasible, safe and beneficial in children with PA.
Key words: Appendicitis, Complications, Treatment
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Affiliation(s)
- Rambha Rai
- KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore
| | | | | | - Yee Low
- KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore
| | - Te-Lu Yap
- KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore
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Partrick DA. Prospective evaluation of a primary laparoscopic approach for children presenting with simple or complicated appendicitis. Am J Surg 2006; 192:750-5. [PMID: 17161088 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2006.08.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2006] [Revised: 08/10/2006] [Accepted: 08/10/2006] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Aziz O, Athanasiou T, Tekkis PP, Purkayastha S, Haddow J, Malinovski V, Paraskeva P, Darzi A. Laparoscopic versus open appendectomy in children: a meta-analysis. Ann Surg 2006; 243:17-27. [PMID: 16371732 PMCID: PMC1449958 DOI: 10.1097/01.sla.0000193602.74417.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 246] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to use meta-analysis to compare laparoscopic and open appendectomy in a pediatric population. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA Meta-analysis is a statistical tool that can be used to evaluate the literature in both qualitative and quantitative ways, accounting for variations in characteristics that can influence overall estimate of outcomes of interest. Meta-analysis of laparoscopic versus open appendectomy in a pediatric population has not previously been performed. METHODS Comparative studies published between 1992 and 2004 of laparoscopic versus open appendectomy in children were included. Endpoints were postoperative pyrexia, ileus, wound infection, intra-abdominal abscess formation, operative time, and postoperative hospital stay. RESULTS Twenty-three studies including 6477 children (43% laparoscopic, 57% open) were included. Wound infection was significantly reduced with laparoscopic versus open appendectomy (1.5% versus 5%; odds ratio [OR] = 0.45, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.27-0.75), as was ileus (1.3% versus 2.8%; OR = 0.5, 95% CI, 0.29-0.86). Intra-abdominal abscess formation was more common following laparoscopic surgery, although this was not statistically significant. Subgroup analysis of randomized trials did not reveal significant difference between the 2 techniques in any of the 4 complications. Operative time was not significantly longer in the laparoscopic group, and postoperative stay was significantly shorter (weighted mean difference, -0.48; 95% CI, -0.65 to -0.31). Sensitivity analysis identified lowest heterogeneity when only randomized studies were considered, followed by prospective, recent, and finally large studies. CONCLUSIONS The results of this meta-analysis suggest that laparoscopic appendectomy in children reduces complications. However, we also see the need for further high-quality randomized trials comparing the 2 techniques, matched not only for age and sex but also for obesity and severity of appendicitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omer Aziz
- Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, Department of Surgical Oncology and Technology, St. Mary's Hospital, London, UK
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van den Broek WT, van der Ende ED, Bijnen AB, Breslau PJ, Gouma DJ. Which children could benefit from additional diagnostic tools in case of suspected appendicitis? J Pediatr Surg 2004; 39:570-4. [PMID: 15065030 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2003.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND New diagnostic tools such as ultrasound scan, computed tomography (CT) scan, and diagnostic laparoscopy, have become available for children with suspected appendicitis but should be reserved for equivocal cases. The aim of this study was to develop a scoring system to identify this subgroup of children. METHODS Patients from 2 different periods (period 1, 99 consecutive children [group 1] and period 2, 62 consecutive children [group 2] with suspected appendicitis) were prospectively evaluated. Variables predicting appendicitis were obtained from group 1. By means of a regression analysis, a scoring system was created and applied to the patients of group 2. Missed appendicitis and negative appendectomy rates obtained by clinical practice were compared with the results that would have been accomplished based on the scoring system. Thereafter, the scoring system was externally validated in a group of children presented at another hospital (group 3, n = 114). RESULTS The variables, leukocyte count > or = 10.10(9)/L (2 points); rebound tenderness (2 points); and temperature > or = 38 degrees C (1 point) correlated significantly with appendicitis. The scoring system was used to categorize patients into 3 groups: appendicitis unlikely, doubtful appendicitis, and suspected appendicitis. The specificity and sensitivity of the scoring system were, respectively, 85% and 89%. Applying the scoring system would lead to comparable negative appendectomy rates of 8% versus 6% using clinical judgement and a comparable number of performed laparoscopies (26% v 31%). However, it could lead to a lower missed appendicitis rate (1% v 6%) and a lower perforation rate (0% v 11%). External validation showed comparable performed laparoscopies (32%) and missed appendicitis (2%) rates but a higher negative appendectomy rate (19%), probably owing to a lower percentage of appendicitis in hospital (2, 47%) compared with hospital (1, 71%). CONCLUSIONS Children can be observed if leukocyte count is less than 10.10(9)/L and rebound tenderness is absent; a diagnostic laparoscopy should be performed if one of these is present, and if both are present one could perform an appendectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- W T van den Broek
- Department of Surgery, Medical Centre Alkmaar, Alkmaar, The Netherlands
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Lintula H, Kokki H, Vanamo K. Single-blind randomized clinical trial of laparoscopic versus open appendicectomy in children. Br J Surg 2001; 88:510-4. [PMID: 11298617 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2168.2001.01723.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Appendicectomy is the most common emergency surgical operation in children. The aim of this study was to compare recovery after appendicectomy using either a laparoscopic or an open technique in children. METHODS Sixty-one children aged 4-15 years undergoing appendicectomy for suspected uncomplicated appendicitis were studied. The study was prospective, randomized and single-blinded, with parallel groups. Standardized anaesthetic technique and pain management were used. The study endpoints were postoperative pain, need for rescue analgesia, and length of hospital stay. RESULTS Children had significantly less pain after laparoscopic compared with open appendicectomy 8 h after operation and on the first and second postoperative mornings (P < 0.05). Laparoscopic appendicectomy resulted in a reduced requirement for rescue analgesia with oxycodone in hospital: mean(s.d.) 3.6(2.5) versus 5.8(3.3) doses (mean difference 2.2 doses, 95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 0.6--3.8 doses); P = 0.01. The mean(s.d.) length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the laparoscopic group: 1.9(0.7) versus 2.6(0.9) days (mean difference 0.7 days, 95 per cent c.i. 0.3--1.1 days); P = 0.001. Three children who had open appendicectomy developed a wound infection. CONCLUSION Laparoscopic appendicectomy is associated with less postoperative pain and a shorter hospital stay than open appendicectomy in children undergoing surgery for uncomplicated appendicitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Lintula
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Kuopio University Hospital, PO Box 1777, FIN-70211 Kuopio, Finland
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Canty TG, Collins D, Losasso B, Lynch F, Brown C. Laparoscopic appendectomy for simple and perforated appendicitis in children: the procedure of choice? J Pediatr Surg 2000; 35:1582-5. [PMID: 11083428 DOI: 10.1053/jpsu.2000.18319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Whether laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) is superior to open appendectomy (OA) for simple (SA) and perforated appendicitis (PA) in children is debatable. The operative experience of 4 senior pediatric surgeons at a single institution was studied over a 6-year period during a transition from OA in all cases to LA in all cases, to answer this question. METHODS All appendectomies from December 1993 to December 1999 were reviewed for operative technique (OA, LA), presence of perforation (SA, PA), operating time (OT), length of stay (LOS), morbidity, and mortality. RESULTS There were 1,128 appendectomies in children aged 14 months to 19 years, including 955 LA (653 in SA, 302 in PA) and 173 OA (86 in SA, 87 in PA). OT was equal for LA and OA in SA (52 minutes), but has dropped to less than 40 minutes for LA in the past year. OT in PA was slightly longer in LA versus OA (68 v. 58 minutes; P < .001) but recently has dropped in LA to less than 60 minutes. LOS in SA was 2 days for LA and 3 days for OA; in PA, LOS was 7 days in both LA and OA, but has dropped to 5 days for LA recently. Postoperative abscess rates and incidence of bowel obstruction did not differ between LA and OA in either group. There was no mortality. CONCLUSIONS LA is at least as safe and effective as, if not superior to, OA for both simple and perforated appendicitis. Postoperative pain is less, and recovery is faster, thereby reducing LOS and overall cost. The growing demand for this procedure can be satisfied without increase in cost, morbidity, or mortality. Laparoscopic appendectomy is our procedure of choice in children.
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Kokoska ER, Murayama KM, Silen ML, Miller TA, Dillon PA, Weber TR. A state-wide evaluation of appendectomy in children. Am J Surg 1999; 178:537-40. [PMID: 10670867 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9610(99)00219-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traditional management of appendicitis in children involves open appendectomy (OA), an operation that is relatively inexpensive and carries few risks and complications. However, little information is available regarding the use, cost, and complication of laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) in children. METHODS Our initial aim was to determine if LA is frequently performed in children (<15 years). We then compared the surgical results of OA versus LA. In conjunction with the Missouri Department of Health, we evaluated 793 children treated for appendicitis throughout the state between January 1997 and June 1997. The authors were blinded to the patient, surgeon, and hospital; no children were excluded. RESULTS LA was infrequently performed in children with advanced disease. Overall, children undergoing LA were older and had a shorter hospitalization but no difference in hospital charge. When separated by child age, LA was associated with a shorter length of stay in all groups (0 to 5, 6 to 10, and 11 to 15 years) but only children in the 6 to 10 year range had a lower hospital charge when compared with patients undergoing OA. CONCLUSIONS LA is becoming a common surgical approach for older children with simple appendicitis. Furthermore, these data suggest that LA, independent of individual surgeon or medical center, is associated with a decreased length of hospitalization without a significant difference in hospital charge.
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Affiliation(s)
- E R Kokoska
- Department of Surgery, Saint Louis University Health Sciences Center and Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital, Missouri, USA
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