Feasibility of a Laparoscopic Approach for Generalized Peritonitis from Perforated Appendicitis in Children

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the feasibility of a laparoscopic approach in children with generalized peritonitis secondary to perforated appendicitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients who underwent laparoscopic appendectomy with drainage for generalized peritonitis secondary to perforated appendicitis at our hospital between September 2001 and April 2012. Laparoscopic outcomes were compared with outcomes of an open method for perforated appendicitis. RESULTS: Ninety-nine patients underwent laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) for generalized peritonitis from perforated appendicitis, and 87 patients underwent open appendectomy (OA) for perforated appendicitis. Wound infection was more common in the OA group (12.6%) than in the LA group (4.0%; p=0.032). The incidence of intestinal obstruction during long-term follow-up was significantly higher in the OA group (4.6% vs. 0.0% in the LA group; p=0.046). LA was possible in most patients for whom LA was attempted, with a conversion rate of 10.8%. Conversion to OA was affected by the preoperative duration of symptoms and the occurrence of intraoperative complications. CONCLUSION: LA is feasible for use in children with generalized peritonitis from perforated appendicitis, with reasonable open conversion and perioperative complication rates comparable to those of the OA group.