Laparoscopic appendectomy in children: A report of 52 cases / 中国微创外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To explore the value of laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) in children. Methods A total of 52 children underwent laparoscopic appendectomy by using the 3-port technique from October 2002 to December 2004. Results The operations were performed smoothly in all the 52 cases. The operating time was 20~50 min (mean, 30 min). The patients were discharged from hospital at 2~4 postoperative days. Peri-port subcutaneous emphysema occurred in 2 cases. No other complications were found. Follow-up checkups for 3~29 months (mean, 14 months) in 49 cases found no intestinal obstruction or abdominal residual infection. Conclusions Laparoscopic appendectomy in children is safe, effective and minimally invasive.