Laparoscopic interval appendectomy for periappendicular abscess

Background: Laparoscopic appendectomy was first described in the early 1980s and is currently widely used for the treatment of acute appendicitis. The application of laparoscopic techniques to interval appendectomy and the value of this procedure as compared to open elective interval appendectomy remains uncertain. Therefore, we set out to assess the usefulness of interval laparoscopic appendectomy following periappendicular abscess. Methods: This study analyzes the data for 10 patients who underwent interval laparoscopic appendectomy 8–10 weeks following documented periappendicular abscess in the period between January 1996 and June 1998. Results: Laparoscopic appendectomy was completed successfully in all 10 patients. Nine patients were discharged 1 day after the operation; one patient was discharged on the evening of the operative day. There were no complications and no wound infections. Conclusion: We conclude that the laparoscopic approach is the preferable treatment for interval appendectomy. It is associated with minimal or no morbidity and a very short hospital stay. Received: 13 May 1999/Accepted: 9 December 1999/Online publication: 12 July 2000