Single Incision Three Ports Laparoscopic Appendectomy

Min, In Chul; Kim, Dong Ju; Jang, Lee Chan; Choi, Jae Woon; Sun, Woo Young; Jeong, Jun Soo; Choi, Han Lim; Ryu, Dong Hee

Abstract

PURPOSE
Laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) is becoming popular for the treatment of acute appendicitis. The laparoscopic appendectomy has the advantages of a more rapid recovery, better cosmetic outcome and reduced postoperative pain compared to the open appendectomy. Several laparoscopic procedures have been described that used two or more trocars. We present the results of a new LA technique that performed through three ports in a single incision.
METHODS
A single incision three-port LA was performed in 10 patients. Under general anesthesia, a 5 mm scope (0degrees), 2 mm working port and 5 mm working port were inserted through the umbilicus. The appendix was grasped and dissected from the surrounding tissues with a grasper or dissector. The base of the appendix was ligated with an endo-loop two times and cut by scissors. The appendix was then withdrawn through the umbilicus.
RESULTS
The average operating time in our series was 69.5+/-23.3 minutes and the median time to discharge 4.5+/-1.9 days. Wound infection developed in two patients. There was no conversion to traditional LA or laparotomy.
CONCLUSION
A single incision three port LA was safe and effective for LA. The availability of laparoscopic procedures has expanded the range of options available from which to choose a suitable procedure for individual cases.