Methods:

Two hundred fifty patients were analyzed following either laparoscopic or open appendectomy. The main outcome measures were postoperative

complications. Secondary outcome measures included evaluation of pain and activity scores at base line preoperatively and on every postoperative

day, as well as resumption of diet and length of hospital stay. Activity scores and quality of life were assessed on short–term follow–up.

Results:

There was no mortality. The overall complication rate was similar in both groups (17.5% versus 16% in the laparoscopic and open groups

respectively), but some early complications in the laparoscopic group required a reoperation. Operating time was significantly longer in the

laparoscopic group (60 minutes versus 40 minutes; P = 0.000) while there was no difference in the pain scores and medications, resumption of diet,

length of stay, or activity scores. At 2 weeks, there was no difference in the activity or pain scores, Appendectomy for acute or complicated

(perforated and gangrenous) appendicitis had similar complication rates, regardless of the technique (P = 0.181).

Conclusions

Unlike other minimally invasive procedures, laparoscopic appendectomy did not offer a significant advantage over open appendectomy in all

studied parameters except quality of life scores at 2 weeks. It also took longer to perform. The choice of the procedure should be based on surgeon or

patient preference.