Laparoscopic approach for acute appendicular peritonitis: efficacy and safety: a report of 96 consecutive cases.

SUMMARY: Several authors have demonstrated the feasibility and efficacy of the laparoscopic approach in the acute abdomen. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance and safety of laparoscopy as a routine approach in the management of appendicular peritonitis. This retrospective study included 96 consecutive cases of acute appendicular peritonitis. All patients underwent a laparoscopic approach. The mean APACHE II score and Mannheim Peritonitis Index were 7.6 and 17.4, respectively. Laparoscopic diagnostic accuracy was 98%. Laparoscopy allowed the physician to correct the preoperative suspected diagnosis in 6 patients (6.5%). The results of preoperative clinical evaluation of the peritonitis severity were corrected by laparoscopic exploration in 26% (25/96) of cases. Complete laparoscopic management was achieved in 79% (76/96). Overall, the postoperative morbidity rate was 13% (13/96). Postoperative intra-abdominal abscess and wound sepsis rates in patients treated by laparoscopy were 2% and 1%, respectively. There were no deaths. The laparoscopic approach for the management of appendicular peritonitis is safe and effective and does not result in any specific complication. Advantages include the high quality of laparoscopic exploration, a very low incidence of septic complications, and a comfortable postoperative recovery.