APPENDECTOMY TECHNIQUES: SURGICAL ADVANCES AND CURRENT IMPACTS

Abstract

Acute appendicitis is the most common surgical emergency, historically treated with open appendectomy (AA). The introduction of laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) marked a significant evolution, becoming the preferred approach in most centers. This narrative literature review, based on a PubMed database search, compares the different surgical techniques. Evidence shows that LA offers advantages over AA, such as less postoperative pain, a lower rate of wound infection, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster return to activities. However, in cases of complicated appendicitis, LA is associated with an increased risk of developing an intra-abdominal abscess. Innovations such as single-port laparoscopic appendectomy (SILS) and robotic surgery seek superior aesthetic results and greater precision, respectively, although they are not yet the standard. We conclude that LA is the gold standard for uncomplicated appendicitis, while the choice of technique in complicated cases should be individualized, considering the risk of abscess versus the benefits of recovery, as well as the experience of the surgical team.