Various stapling techniques in laparoscopic appendectomy: 40 consecutive cases.

The applicability and safety of a new operative technique for laparoscopic appendectomy using an automatic stapling device, the Multifire Endo-GIA 30, was evaluated. This instrument, which can be passed through a 12-mm trocar sleeve, compresses the appendix as well as the resting stump, occluding its lumen with three lines of titanium staples and cutting between them. Data from 40 laparoscopic appendectomy patients collected between August 1991 and March 1992 were analyzed prospectively. Using this stapler, the mean operation time was 58.33 min (range, 35-95 min), with no complications or mortality. In 35 cases, an acute, and in one case, a chronic, appendicitis was histologically confirmed; in four cases no inflammation was detected. Our preliminary results suggest that this new stapling device offers a simple and safe method for use in laparoscopic appendectomy.