Laparoscopic Appendectomy: Minimally Invasive Surgery Training Improves Outcomes in Basic Laparoscopic Procedures

World J Surg. 2018 Jun;42(6):1706-1713. doi: 10.1007/s00268-017-4374-z.

Abstract

Background: To determine whether minimally invasive surgery (MIS) training improves outcomes in laparoscopic appendectomy, a procedure that is commonly performed in general surgery training.

Methods: Retrospective review was conducted of all patients undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy for suspected acute appendicitis between 2014 and 2015 at a single-center, tertiary-care academic institution. Patients operated on by MIS-trained surgeons (MIS group) were compared to those operated on by general surgeons (GS group). Single-incision and multiport laparoscopic appendectomies were included; open approach, known malignancy, and interval appendectomies were excluded.

Results: A total of 507 patients were included in the study: 181 patients in the MIS group and 326 in the GS group. There were no differences in patient demographics or medical comorbidities between groups and most patients were ASA class 1 or 2. Patients operated on by MIS-trained surgeons had significantly shorter operative time (43 min, IQR 32-60 vs. 58 min, IQR 44-81; p < 0.001) and fewer intra-operative adverse events (0/181 vs. 8/326, 2.5%; p = 0.03). There was no difference in number of postoperative adverse events between groups (6/181, 3.3% vs. 21/326, 6.4%; p = 0.13). In the MIS group, subgroup analysis of single-incision versus multiport appendectomy showed no differences in intra-operative or postoperative adverse events. On multivariable linear regression, lack of MIS training and traditional multiport approach had the greatest effects on prolonging operative time (11.2 and 12.8 min, respectively; p = 0.001).

Conclusions: MIS fellowship improves operative metrics and patient outcomes even in basic laparoscopy.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Appendectomy / education*
  • Appendectomy / methods*
  • Appendectomy / standards
  • Appendicitis / surgery*
  • Clinical Competence
  • Fellowships and Scholarships / standards*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Laparoscopy / education*
  • Laparoscopy / standards
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / education
  • Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / standards
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult