Update on Transumbilical Single-Incision Laparoscopic Assisted Appendectomy (TULAA) - Which Children Benefit and What are the Complications?

BACKGROUND: Transumbilical laparoscopic-assisted appendectomy (TULAA) is fast and cost-effective since no endoloops, staplers or wound protection devices are used. We analyzed the effects of TULAA as first approach for perforated (PA) and non-perforated (NPA) appendicitis in children.

PATIENTS: We performed a retrospective analysis of 181 children for whom TULAA was the first approach for appendicitis between October 2010 and March 2016.

METHODS: Morbidity, additional laparoscopic instrument insertion (AI), conversions to open extraumbilical appendectomy (OC), and complications were evaluated.

RESULTS: TULAA was initiated in 181 (87.4%) children (113 boys: 68 girls). Median age was 10.3 years (3.3-13.9 years) and BMI 16.8 kg/m2 (12.4-30.8). Appendicitis was non-perforated in 157 (86.7%) and perforated in 24 (13.3%) patients. TULAA was finalized in 142 (78.5%) patients, AI were inserted in 20 (11%) and OC were performed in 19 (10.5%) patients. Duration of surgery did not exceed 20 min for 12.8%, and 30 min for 43.6% of patients with TULAA and NPA. The rate of wound infections did not differ between procedures (TULAA 3/142 (2.1%), AI 0 (0%), OC 1/19 (5.3%), P=1.000). Further postoperative course was uneventful in 179 (98.9%) patients.

CONCLUSION: TULAA can be used as first approach for appendicitis in all children with a low rate of complications. Extracorporeal appendix stump closure can be safely achieved in the majority of children without using laparoscopic disposable devices.