The Effects of LigaSure on the Laparoscopic Management of Acute Appendicitis

Abstract

A very important step in laparoscopic appendectomy is dissection of the appendiceal mesenteric pedicle. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of LigaSure in laparoscopic appendectomy. Between August 2007 and June 2008, a total of 32 patients were included in the study. Patients were randomized into 2 groups. The first group's dissection of the mesoappendix was performed with LigaSure (5 to 10 mm), whereas the second group's with endodissector and endoclip. The surgical time, postoperative complications, additional analgesics use and hospital stay were compared. There were no significant differences in complication rates, use of analgesics and hospital stay between the groups. The operation time (49.06+/-14.73 min vs. 59.69+/-12.54 min, P=0.036) was significantly lower in the LigaSure group. This study demonstrates that dissection of the mesoappendix with LigaSure reduces the operation time and could be used safely. However, more experiences are needed to attain reliable scientific results.