Appendectomy using single-incision laparoscopic surgery: experience in an emergency department

Background and objective: Laparoscopic appendectomy for acute appendicitis is a widely used procedure. Three or more trocars are normally required. We present our early experience performing appendectomy by means of single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) for acute appendicitis. Methods: Prospective study from December 2008 to October 2009 in patients who gave their informed consent. Specialists in emergency surgery were responsible for carrying out the procedures. The navel was the point of entry in all cases. Results: We performed 52 emergency laparoscopic appendectomies using a single umbilical incision. The intervention was successful in all patients. The average operating time was 41 minutes. There were no conversions to open surgery or requirement for additional trocars. No complications were observed during or after the procedures. The mean hospital stay was 2.7 days. Conclusion: Adult appendectomy using SILS is a safe procedure that is reproducible and easy to perform. [Emergencias 2010;22:361-364]