Comparison between open and laparoscopic appendectomy: A systematic review

Abstract

Acute appendicitis is the most common intra-abdominal condition which requires emergency surgery in children. Open Appendectomy (OA) and Laparoscopic Appendectomy (LA) can be used for the intervention. This is a retrospective study aiming to compare the two techniques. There is not a significantly greater length of operation in the laparoscopic vs. the open group. Most authors agree that the length of hospital stay is shorter for patients operated with laparoscopy. LA is more expensive but becomes cheaper through time. The overall complication rate seems to be similar in both groups. LA is less painful; it has less wound infections and postoperative ileus. Hospital stay is shorter, return to a normal diet and activity is faster and the cost is decreasing. We recommend LA as a routine surgical approach for acute appendicitis.