Single-incision versus conventional three-incision laparoscopic appendectomy: a single centre experience.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the short-term outcomes of single-incision and conventional three-incision laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) at a single surgical unit.


METHODS
We conducted a retrospective study comparing the operative outcomes of two LA techniques between January 2009 and November 2010.


RESULTS
LA was performed successfully in 44 patients: through a single incision in 27 patients and through three incisions in 17 patients. The time taken to resume oral intake was slightly less in the single-incision group than in the three-incision group, at 1.1 versus 1.5 days, respectively (P = 0.0419). However, blood loss and hospital stay were not significantly different, at 7.2 versus 6.4 ml (P = 0.6244) and 3.7 versus 3.8 days (P = 0.8565), respectively. The cosmetic result was better in the single-incision group, because of the well-concealed scar.


CONCLUSIONS
Both single-incision and conventional LA are effective and minimally invasive, and should be performed according to the experience of the surgeon. Single-incision LA results in faster recovery, but larger studies are required to confirm this and to determine if these techniques can be used safely for all indications of appendectomy.
Department of Minimally Invasive Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Sanhao Street #36, Shenyang, People's Republic of China.
Siwo Ernest
SE
Amos
Wu
W
Shuo-Dong
Ying
Y
Fan
Yu
Y
Tian
Chun-Chih
CC
Chen
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001062:Appendectomy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D001064:Appendicitis / Q000601:surgery*; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D007902:Length of Stay; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D010149:Postoperative Pain / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult