title: Laparoscopic vs. open appendicectomies: results obtained by junior surgeons at a British University Hospital.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The laparoscopic approach for appendicectomies remains a frequent topic of debate. In this study we report the experience with laparoscopic (LA) and open appendicectomies (OA) achieved in a British University Hospital over one year where most of these operations have been conducted by junior trainees.
  
  
  METHODS
  Retrospective review of LA and OA performed at the Whipps Cross University Hospital of London (U.K.). Outcomes measured were the operating time, length of hospital stay and post-operative complications.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Between January and December 2008 205 appendicectomies have been performed on adult patients. Eighty-eight per cent of the procedures were conducted by junior surgeons. The operating time was significantly shorter for the OA vs. LA patients (55 +/- 26.8 vs. 83 +/- 26.9 min, p < 0.01). The hospital stay confirmed a significant advantage for LA (2.2 vs. 3.7 days, p = 0.02). No significant differences were present among techniques for the overall morbidity, post-operative intra-abdominal abscesses and rate of readmissions.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Under adequate supervision LA can be safely performed by junior surgeons and reduces the hospital stay.
authors: Department of Surgery, Whipps Cross University Hospital, London, United Kingdom. colombofrancesco@yahoo.it
authors: F
authors: F
authors: Colombo
authors: S M
authors: SM
authors: Andreani
authors: G
authors: G
authors: Gravante
authors: A
authors: A
authors: Davies
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001062:Appendectomy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000193:education / Q000379:methods*; D002983:Clinical Competence; D004503:Education, Medical, Graduate; D005260:Female; D006785:Hospitals, University; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000193:education; D007902:Length of Stay; D008131:London; D008297:Male; D008505:Medical Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D008875:Middle Aged; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D000078329:Workforce; D055815:Young Adult