Laparoscopic approach for the treatment of acute complications after appendectomy: a systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: The significance of laparoscopy after appendectomy is still unclear, despite the fact that it is thought to be an appropriate technique for the detection and management of postoperative complications. We aimed to determine the incidence, risk factors, diagnosis, and laparoscopic approach for the treatment of acute complications after appendectomy performing a systematic review of the literature. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: We performed systematic review of the PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase and GoogleScholar bibliographic databases between 1995 and 2022 regarding laparoscopic resolution of early postoperative complications after appendectomy. Demographics, peri-operative variables, and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: A total of 9 studies comprising 116 cases of laparoscopic resolution of early complications after appendectomy were included. The primary surgery showed a 60% of perforated or gangrenous appendicitis. Time elapse between the appendectomy and the diagnosis of the postoperative complication was from 2 to 15 days (median 5.8 days). The procedures performed at laparoscopy were as follows: laparoscopic washout and drainage of generalized peritonitis and intra-abdominal abscesses (95.6%), laparoscopic lysis of adhesions due to small bowel obstruction (1.7%), running suturing for unnoticed small bowel lesion (1.7%) and one patient required a right colectomy due to stump leakage (0.8%). Conversion to an open approach was necessary in 9 patients (7.8%). Postoperative complications after early re-laparoscopy washout were reported in 4 publications (15.5%). Finally, 15 (12.9%) patients required an additional intervention. The mean LOS was of 5 days. CONCLUSIONS: Infectious complications are not uncommon after appendectomy, but their incidence increases significantly in complicated appendicitis, with IAA being the most feared complication. When re-exploration is mandatory, the laparoscopic approach is a safe and highly effective tool for the diagnosis and treatment of these complications, adding the benefits of minimally invasive surgery.

Synthetic Mesh in Contaminated Abdominal Wall Surgery: Friend or Foe? A Literature Review.

INTRODUCTION: The use of synthetic mesh in contaminated fields is controversial. In the last decade, published data have grown in this matter suggesting favorable outcomes. However, multiple variables and scenarios that influence the results still make difficult to obtain convincing recommendations. METHODS: We performed a review of relevant available data in English regarding the use of synthetic meshes in contaminated abdominal wall surgery using the Medline database. Articles including patients undergoing ventral hernia in contaminated fields were included for analysis. RESULTS: Most studies support the use of synthetic meshes for ventral hernia repair in contaminated fields, as they have shown lower recurrence rate and similar wound morbidity. Although no mesh seems ideal in this setting, most surgeons advocate for the use of reduced-in-weight polypropylene mesh. Sublay location of the prosthesis associated with complete fascial closure appears to offer better results in these patients. In addition, current evidence suggests that the use of prophylactic synthetic mesh when performing a stoma or for stoma reversal incisional hernias might be beneficial. CONCLUSION: A better understanding of surgical site occurrences and its prevention, as well as the introduction of new reduced-in-weight meshes have allowed using synthetic meshes in a contaminated field. Although the use of mesh has indeed shown promising results in these patients, the surgical team should still balance pros and cons at the time of placing synthetics in contaminated fields.

Simulation in Hernia Surgery: Where Do We Stand?

Simulation seems to be the best method of improving medical attitude, technical skills, and operating times. A literature review of the available data in simulation for hernia surgery was performed. Surgical simulation has been included as a main requirement in residency programs and endorsed by several surgical societies. However, evaluating how simulation affects patient's outcomes is challenging. In addition, simulation training represents an institutional economic burden that could undermine its implementation and development. Published data support that simulation-based training is a highly efficient tool, thus, its implementation should be strongly encouraged.

Comportamiento biológico de mallas para la reparación de paredes abdominales. Resultados preliminares en un modelo animal / Biological behavior of meshes used for abdominal wall surgery. Preliminary results in an animal model

Resumen La falla en la reparación de los defectos de la pared abdominal se relaciona con una alteración en la integración del material protésico. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el comportamiento biológico de mallas utilizadas en cirugía de paredes abdominales en un modelo animal. Luego de la confección de un defecto parietal se colocó una malla intraperitoneal, utilizando 4 grupos de 10 ratas; 1) Prolene (polipropileno microporo de alto peso), 2) Ultrapro (polipropileno + poliglecaprone, macroporo de bajo peso), 3) Proceed (polipropileno + polidoxanona + celulosa oxidada regenerada, macroporo de peso intermedio), y 4) Physiomesh (polipropileno + poliglecaprone, macroporo de bajo peso). Se realizó análisis macroscópico y microscópico a los 30 días y los resultados fueron evaluados por dos observadores independientes. Al examen macroscópico, la integración de la prótesis fue > 75% en todos los grupos. El análisis microscópico mostró mayor inflamación global y número de células gigantes multinucleadas en Prolene (p < 0.01) y menor cantidad de células inflamatorias en la interface músculo-malla en Physiomesh < Ultrapro (p < 0.05). La organización de las fibras de colágeno fue similar para todas las mallas, aunque hubo mayor depósito de colágeno en los espacios inter-filamento para las mallas macroporosas (p < 0.01). Concluimos que las mallas de polipropileno microporo y alto peso producen mayor reacción inflamatoria y de cuerpo extraño. Por lo tanto, las mallas compuestas tendrían una mejor biocompatibilidad y serían mejor toleradas por el huésped.

Abstract An adequate integration of the prosthetic materials used to repair abdominal wall defects is necessary for satisfactory outcomes. We aimed to evaluate, in an animal model, the biological behavior of meshes used for abdominal wall surgery. Four groups of 10 rats were separated. After laparotomy, intraperitoneal prostheses were placed: 1) Prolene (polypropylene microporous, heavy-weight), 2) Ultrapro (polypropylene + poliglecaprone, macroporous low-weight), 3) Proceed (polypropylene + polidoxanone + regenerated oxidized cellulose, microporous medium-weight), 4) Physiomesh (polypropylene + poliglecaprone, macroporous lowweight). Macroscopic and microscopic analyses were performed at 30 days. The results were evaluated by two independent observers and expressed in means with standard deviation. For statistical analysis p < 0.05 was considered significant. On macroscopic examination, mesh integration was greater than 75% in all cases. Microscopic analysis showed greater global inflammation and more multinucleated giant cells in Prolene (p < 0.01). Less inflammatory cells were observed at the muscle-mesh interface in Physiomesh vs. Ultrapro (p < 0.05). Collagen fibers disposition was similar in all meshes, although, microporous meshes had higher collagen deposit in the interfilamentous spaces (p < 0.01). In conclusion, in our animal model, microporous and heavy-weight polypropylene meshes produce greater inflammatory and foreign body reaction. Thus, composite meshes would have greater biocompatibility and better tolerance by the host.

[Biological behavior of meshes used for abdominal wall surgery. Preliminary results in an animal model]. / Comportamiento biológico de mallas para la reparación de paredes abdominales. Resultados preliminares en un modelo animal.

An adequate integration of the prosthetic materials used to repair abdominal wall defects is necessary for satisfactory outcomes. We aimed to evaluate, in an animal model, the biological behavior of meshes used for abdominal wall surgery. Four groups of 10 rats were separated. After laparotomy, intraperitoneal prostheses were placed: 1) Prolene® (polypropylene microporous, heavy-weight), 2) Ultrapro® (polypropylene + poliglecaprone, macroporous low-weight), 3) Proceed® (polypropylene + polidoxanone + regenerated oxidized cellulose, microporous medium-weight), 4) Physiomesh® (polypropylene + poliglecaprone, macroporous lowweight). Macroscopic and microscopic analyses were performed at 30 days. The results were evaluated by two independent observers and expressed in means with standard deviation. For statistical analysis p < 0.05 was considered significant. On macroscopic examination, mesh integration was greater than 75% in all cases. Microscopic analysis showed greater global inflammation and more multinucleated giant cells in Prolene® (p < 0.01). Less inflammatory cells were observed at the muscle-mesh interface in Physiomesh® vs. Ultrapro® (p < 0.05). Collagen fibers disposition was similar in all meshes, although, microporous meshes had higher collagen deposit in the interfilamentous spaces (p < 0.01). In conclusion, in our animal model, microporous and heavy-weight polypropylene meshes produce greater inflammatory and foreign body reaction. Thus, composite meshes would have greater biocompatibility and better tolerance by the host.

La falla en la reparación de los defectos de la pared abdominal se relaciona con una alteración en la integración del material protésico. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el comportamiento biológico de mallas utilizadas en cirugía de paredes abdominales en un modelo animal. Luego de la confección de un defecto parietal se colocó una malla intraperitoneal, utilizando 4 grupos de 10 ratas; 1) Prolene® (polipropileno microporo de alto peso), 2) Ultrapro® (polipropileno + poliglecaprone, macroporo de bajo peso), 3) Proceed® (polipropileno + polidoxanona + celulosa oxidada regenerada, macroporo de peso intermedio), y 4) Physiomesh® (polipropileno + poliglecaprone, macroporo de bajo peso). Se realizó análisis macroscópico y microscópico a los 30 días y los resultados fueron evaluados por dos observadores independientes. Al examen macroscópico, la integración de la prótesis fue > 75% en todos los grupos. El análisis microscópico mostró mayor inflamación global y número de células gigantes multinucleadas en Prolene® (p < 0.01) y menor cantidad de células inflamatorias en la interface músculo-malla en Physiomesh® < Ultrapro® (p < 0.05). La organización de las fibras de colágeno fue similar para todas las mallas, aunque hubo mayor depósito de colágeno en los espacios inter-filamento para las mallas macroporosas (p < 0.01). Concluimos que las mallas de polipropileno microporo y alto peso producen mayor reacción inflamatoria y de cuerpo extraño. Por lo tanto, las mallas compuestas tendrían una mejor biocompatibilidad y serían mejor toleradas por el huésped.

Impact of Obesity on Surgical Outcomes of Laparoscopic Appendectomy: Lessons Learned From 2000 Cases in an Urban Teaching Hospital.

BACKGROUND: As the prevalence of obesity continues to increase worldwide, we aimed to determine the surgical outcomes of obese patients with acute appendicitis undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy (LA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing LA during the period 2006 to 2019 was performed. The cohort was divided into 2 groups: G1, patients with body mass index ≥30 kg/m2 and G2: patients with body mass index <30 kg/m2. RESULTS: A total of 2009 LA were performed; 114 (6%) were included in G1 and 1895 (94%) in G2. Complicated acute appendicitis rate (G1: 39% vs. G2: 20%, P<0.0001), conversion rates (G1: 12% vs. 1.69%, P<0.0001), overall 30-day morbidity rates (G1: 27% vs. G2: 14%, P=0.0001), and postoperative intra-abdominal abscess rates (G1: 8% vs. (2%), P<0.0001) were higher in obese patients. Furthermore, obesity was an independent risk factor for overall morbidity, postoperative intra-abdominal abscess, and conversion to open surgery. CONCLUSION: In obese patients, LA had inferior clinical outcomes compared with nonobese patients.

Minimally invasive step-up approach for the management of postoperative intraabdominal abscess after laparoscopic appendectomy.

BACKGROUND: Postoperative intraabdominal abscess (IAA) is the most feared complication after laparoscopic appendectomy (LA). We aimed to evaluate the management of this complication in a large cohort of patients undergoing LA in order to design a treatment algorithm. METHODS: We included a consecutive series of patients undergoing LA for acute appendicitis from January 2008 to December 2018. The cohort of patients with postoperative IAA was divided into three groups based on the implemented treatments: G1: antibiotics only, G2: CT-guided drainage, and G3: laparoscopic lavage. Characteristics of the fluid collections and outcomes were analyzed in the three groups. RESULTS: A total of 1668 LA were performed; the rate of IAA was 2.2% (36 patients). There were 12 (33%) patients who received antibiotics only (G1), 8 (22%) underwent CT-guided percutaneous drainage (G2), and 16 (45%) underwent laparoscopic lavage (G3). The median size of the abscesses was 2.7 (1.2-4) cm in G1, 6.2 (4.5-8) cm in G2, and 9.6 (8-11.4) cm in G3 (p < 0.04). Patients with two or more fluid collections underwent a laparoscopic lavage in all cases. Treatment failure occurred in 16% (2/12), 12.5% (1/8) and 12.5% (2/16) of the patients in G1, G2, and G3, respectively. None of the patients in the entire cohort required open surgery to resolve the postoperative IAA. CONCLUSIONS: A minimally invasive step-up approach based on the size and number of fluid collections is associated with excellent outcomes. A treatment algorithm for post-appendectomy IAA is proposed.

Long-term outcomes after bilateral transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) repair for asymptomatic contralateral inguinal hernia.

BACKGROUND: Surgical management of an asymptomatic inguinal hernia is controversial but given that most of the patients will develop symptoms, the hernioplasty seems to be a reasonable option. We aimed to compare postoperative outcomes after transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) repair between patients with symptomatic bilateral hernia (SBH) and patients with one symptomatic hernia and an asymptomatic contralateral hernia (ACH). METHODS: A consecutive series of patients undergoing bilateral laparoscopic TAPP from July 2014 to June 2018 were included. Symptomatic hernia was defined as a groin bulge associated to pain and altered patient's daily activities. Patients were divided into two groups, those with SBH and those with one symptomatic hernia in whom an ACH was diagnosed by physical examination or ultrasound when clinical assessment was inconclusive. Demographics, operative, and postoperative outcomes were compared. Quality of life (QoL) was assessed before and after surgery in both groups. RESULTS: A total of 305 bilateral TAPP repairs were included; 102 (33, 4%) patients had SBH and 203 (66, 6%) had ACH. There were no significant differences between groups regarding age, gender, body mass index, active smoking, and comorbidities. Operative time (SBH: 125 vs. ACH: 132 min, p = 0.13) and overall 30-day morbidity were similar between groups (SBH: 14, 7% vs. ACH: 13, 8%, p = 0.82). After a mean follow-up of 30 (10-48) months, the recurrence rate was 1, 4% and 2, 2% in SBH and ACH, respectively (p = 0.53). QoL after surgery improved significantly and similarly in both groups. CONCLUSION: Bilateral laparoscopic TAPP in the setting of an asymptomatic hernia did not increase morbidity and had similar outcomes when compared to patients with bilateral symptoms. A comprehensive preoperative evaluation of the contralateral groin should be routinely performed, mainly by physical examination, and a bilateral repair may be proposed if an asymptomatic contralateral hernia is detected.

Incidence and risk factors for umbilical trocar site hernia after laparoscopic TAPP repair. A single high-volume center experience.

BACKGROUND: Trocar site hernia (TSH) is often underestimated after minimally invasive surgery. Scarce information is available about the incidence of TSH in patients undergoing laparoscopic hernioplasty. We aimed to evaluate the incidence and risk factors of umbilical TSH after laparoscopic TAPP hernioplasty in patients with and without an associated umbilical hernia. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database of all patients who underwent laparoscopic inguinal TAPP repair during 2013-2018 was performed. After TAPP repair, the umbilical fascia was closed either by a figure-of-eight stitch with absorbable suture (G1) or by umbilical hernioplasty if it was present (G2). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the TSH risk factors. Comparative evaluation regarding demographics, and operative and postoperative variables was performed. RESULTS: A total of 535 laparoscopic TAPP repairs were included. There were 359 (67.1%) patients in G1 and 176 in G2 (32.9%). Surgical site infection was higher in G2 (G1: 0.6% vs G2: 5.7%, p = 0.001). Overall TSH rate was 3.9% after a mean follow-up of 20 (12-41) months. Performing a concomitant umbilical repair significantly increased the risk of umbilical TSH (G1: 2.2% vs G2: 7.4%, p = 0.004). TSH rates in G2 were similar in patients with simple suture or mesh repairs (p = 0.88). Rectus abdominis diastasis (OR 37.8, 95% CI:8.22-174.0, p < 0.001) and inguinal recurrence (OR 13.5, 95% CI:2.04-89.5, p = 0.007) were independent risk factors for TSH. CONCLUSION: Although trocar site hernia after laparoscopic TAPP repair has a low incidence, its risk is significantly increased in patients with a concomitant umbilical hernia repair, rectus abdominis diastasis, and/or inguinal recurrence.

When should we use mesh in laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair? A systematic review.

The use of mesh in laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair (LHHR) remains controversial. The aim of this systematic review was to determine the usefulness of mesh in patients with large hiatal hernia (HH), obesity, recurrent HH, and complicated HH. We performed a systematic review of the current literature regarding the outcomes of LHHR with mesh reinforcement. All articles between 2000 and 2020 describing LHHR with primary suturing, mesh reinforcement, or those comparing both techniques were included. Symptom improvement, quality of life (QoL) improvement, and recurrence rates were evaluated in patients with large HH, obesity, recurrent HH, and complicated HH. Reported outcomes of the use of mesh in patients with large HH had wide variability and heterogeneity. Morbidly obese patients with HH should undergo a weight-loss procedure. However, the benefits of HH repair with mesh are unclear in these patients. Mesh reinforcement during redo LHHR may be beneficial in terms of QoL improvement and hernia recurrence. There is scarce evidence supporting the use of mesh in patients undergoing LHHR for complicated HH. Current data are heterogeneous and have failed to find significant differences when comparing primary suturing with mesh reinforcement. Further research is needed to determine in which patients undergoing LHHR mesh placement would be beneficial.

Outcomes of Laparoscopic Redo Fundoplication in Patients With Failed Antireflux Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this meta-analysis was to summarize the current available evidence regarding the surgical outcomes of laparoscopic redo fundoplication (LRF). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Although antireflux surgery is highly effective, a minority of patients will require a LRF due to recurrent symptoms, mechanical failure, or intolerable side-effects of the primary repair. METHODS: A systematic electronic search on LRF was conducted in the Medline database and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Conversion and postoperative morbidity were used as primary endpoints to determine feasibility and safety. Symptom improvement, QoL improvement, and recurrence rates were used as secondary endpoints to assess efficacy. Heterogeneity across studies was tested with the Chi-square and the proportion of total variation attributable to heterogeneity was estimated by the inconsistency (I2) statistic. A random-effect model was used to generate a pooled proportion with 95% confidence interval (CI) across all studies. RESULTS: A total of 30 studies and 2,095 LRF were included. The mean age at reoperation was 53.3 years. The weighted pooled proportion of conversion was 6.02% (95% CI, 4.16%-8.91%) and the meta-analytic prevalence of major morbidity was 4.98% (95% CI, 3.31%-6.95%). The mean follow-up period was 25 (6-58) months. The weighted pooled proportion of symptom and QoL improvement was 78.50% (95% CI, 74.71%-82.03%) and 80.65% (95% CI, 75.80%-85.08%), respectively. The meta-analytic prevalence estimate of recurrence across the studies was 10.71% (95% CI, 7.74%-14.10%). CONCLUSIONS: LRF is a feasible and safe procedure that provides symptom relief and improved QoL to the vast majority of patients. Although heterogeneously assessed, recurrence rates seem to be low. LRF should be considered a valuable treatment modality for patients with failed antireflux surgery.

Abordaje multidisciplinario del dolor inguinal crónico luego de hernioplastia inguinal / Multidisciplinary approach to chronic postoperative inguinal pain

RESUMEN Antecedentes: el dolor inguinal crónico posoperatorio representa una complicación que altera la ca lidad de vida después de la hernioplastia inguinal. Su incidencia es variable con informes de hasta el 16%. Objetivo: describir el tratamiento y los resultados en pacientes con dolor inguinal crónico luego de una hernioplastia inguinal con malla. Material y métodos: estudio descriptivo, observacional y retrospectivo. Se definió como dolor ingui nal crónico posoperatorio la presencia de dolor inguinal por daño nervioso o afectación del sistema somatosensorial tisular que persiste por más de 6 meses luego de la cirugía inicial. Se revisaron las historias clínicas de los pacientes que cursaban el posoperatorio de hernioplastia inguinal convencio nal y laparoscópica en el período 2010-2018. Se realizó la encuesta EuraHS Quality of life score antes y después del abordaje terapéutico multidisciplinario para evaluar cambios en el dolor y restricción de la actividad física. Los resultados fueron analizados y comparados. Resultados: se identificaron 8 pacientes con dolor inguinal crónico posoperatorio grave. El 100% fue evaluado por el Servicio de tratamiento del dolor y requirieron 3 o más fármacos para manejo del do lor. Posteriormente requirieron bloqueo guiado por tomografía computarizada a causa de la persisten cia de los síntomas. Se realizaron 3 (50%) exploraciones quirúrgicas con retiro de material protésico y 2 triples neurectomías. Se observó una disminución estadísticamente significativa (p < 0,05) en el dolor en reposo, dolor durante la actividad y dolor que experimentaron en la última semana. Conclusión: el abordaje multidisciplinario y escalonado permitiría seleccionar a los pacientes que se beneficiarán con el tratamiento quirúrgico.

ABSTRACT Background: Chronic postoperative inguinal pain represents a complication that alters the quality of life after inguinal hernioplasty. Its incidence is variable with reports of up to 16%. Objective: To describe the treatment and results in patients with chronic inguinal pain after an inguinal hernioplasty with mesh. Material and methods: Descriptive, observational and retrospective study. The postoperative chronic inguinal pain was defined as the presence of inguinal pain due to nerve damage or involvement of the somatosensory tissue system that persists for more than 6 months after the initial surgery. The medical records of patients in the postoperative period of conventional and laparoscopic inguinal hernioplasty in the period 2010-2018 were reviewed. The EuraHS Quality of life score pre and post multidisciplinary therapeutic approach was used to evaluate changes in pain and restriction of physical activity. The results were analyzed and compared. Results: 8 patients with severe chronic postoperative inguinal pain were identified. 100% were eva luated by the pain management service and required 3 or more drugs for pain management. Sub sequently, they required block guided by computed tomography due to persistence of symptoms. 3 (50%) surgical examinations were performed with removal of prosthetic material and 2 triple neurec tomies. A statistically significant decrease (p <0.05) was observed in pain at rest, pain during activity and pain experienced in the last week. Conclusion: The multidisciplinary and step up approach would allow selecting the patients who will benefit from the surgical treatment.

Risk Factors for Readmission After Short-Hospital-Stay Laparoscopic Appendectomy.

BACKGROUND: Single-day discharge is a common practice among patients undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy (LA). We aimed to determine risk factors associated with readmission in patients with short hospital stay after LA. METHODS: We performed a retrospective analysis of all patients who underwent LA during the period 2006-2019. Patients with length of hospital stay shorter than 24 h were included. Demographics, operative variables, and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to determine risk factors for readmission. RESULTS: A total of 2009 LA were performed during the study period; 1506 (75%) patients had short hospital stay and were included in the analysis. Median age was 31 (14-85) years, and 720 (48%) were female. Mild peritonitis was diagnosed in 423 (28%) patients, and 121 (8%) had gangrenous/perforated appendicitis. Mean surgical time was 51(14-180) min. Conversion rate was 0.4%. There were 143 (9%) postoperative complications, including 29 (1.9%) patients with postoperative intra-abdominal abscess. Nine patients (0.6%) underwent reoperation, and only 26 (1.7%) patients were readmitted. The mean time to hospital readmission was 6 (1-14) days. Although age >50 years, obesity, mild peritonitis, and complicated appendicitis were more frequent among patients readmitted, only age >50 years (OR 3.54 95% CI 1.51-8.30) and mild peritonitis (OR 6.16 95% CI 1.80-34.93) were found as independent risk factors for readmission. CONCLUSION: Most patients undergoing LA can be safely discharged within 24 h of admission. Patients over 50 years old and/or with localized peritonitis have significantly higher risk of readmission and therefore may need a closer postoperative follow-up.

Usefulness of intraoperative culture swabs in laparoscopic appendectomy for complicated appendicitis.

PURPOSE: Intraabdominal abscess (IAA) is a feared complication after laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) for complicated appendicitis. Benefits of obtaining intraoperative culture swabs (ICS) still remain controversial. We aimed to determine whether ICS modify the rate and management of IAA after LA for complicated appendicitis. METHODS: A consecutive series of patients who underwent LA for complicated appendicitis from 2008 to 2018 were included. The cohort was divided into two groups: group 1 (G1), with ICS, and group 2 (G2), without ICS. Demographics, operative variables, pathogen isolation, antibiotic sensitivity, and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 1639 LA were performed in the study period. Of these, 270 (16.5%) were complicated appendicitis; 90 (33%) belonged to G1 and 180 (67%) to G2. In G1, a higher proportion of patients had generalized peritonitis (G1, 63.3%; G2, 35%; p < 0.01). Seventy-two (80%) patients had positive cultures in G1. The most frequently isolated bacteria were E. coli (66.7%), Bacteroides spp. (34.7%), and Streptococcus spp. (19.4%). In 26 (36%) patients, the initial empiric antibiotic course was modified due to bacterial resistance. The rate of IAA was higher in patients with ICS (G1, 21.1%; G2, 9.4%; p = 0.01). IAA was treated similarly in both groups. A different type of bacteria was isolated in 7 (53.8%) patients with new culture swabs. CONCLUSIONS: Obtaining ICS in LA for complicated appendicitis with further antibiotic adjustment to the initial pathogen did not lower the incidence of postoperative IAA and did not modify the treatment needed for this complication.

Nationwide Analysis of Inpatient Laparoscopic Versus Open Inguinal Hernia Repair.

Background: Inguinal hernia repair is one of the more common procedures performed in the United States. The optimal surgical approach, however, remains controversial. We aimed to compare the postoperative outcomes and costs between laparoscopic and open inpatient inguinal hernia repairs in a national cohort. Materials and Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of the National Inpatient Sample during the period 2009-2015. Adult patients (≥18 years old) undergoing laparoscopic and open inguinal hernia repair were included. Multivariable logistic, generalized logistic, and linear regression were used to assess the effect of the laparoscopic approach on postoperative complications, mortality, length of stay, and hospital charges. Results: A total of 41,937 patients undergoing open inguinal hernia repair (N = 36,575) and laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair (N = 5282) were included. Patients undergoing laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair were less likely to have postoperative wound complications (odds ratio [OR]: 0.64, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.41-0.98), infection (OR: 0.34, 95% CI: 0.27-0.42), bleeding (OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.63-0.82), cardiac failure (OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.64-0.82), renal failure (OR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.47-0.62), respiratory failure (OR: 0.70, 95% CI: 0.58-0.85), and inpatient mortality (OR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.17-0.40). On average, the laparoscopic approach reduced length of stay by 1.28 days (95% CI: -1.58 to -1.18), and decreased hospital costs by $2400 (95% CI: -$4700 to -$700). Conclusion: Laparoscopic hernia repair is associated with significantly lower rates of postoperative morbidity and mortality, shorter length of hospital stays, and lower hospital costs for inpatient repairs. The laparoscopic approach should be encouraged for the management of appropriate patients with inpatient inguinal hernias.