The suprapubic approach for laparoscopic appendectomy.

BACKGROUND

Because it produces superior cosmetic results, patients prefer laparoscopic appendectomy over open appendectomy. We developed two alternative laparoscopic routes of access to the abdominal cavity for appendectomy that use suprapubic incisions placed below the line of pubic hair. We then compared the results for these three different modes of access.

METHODS

Operative characteristics, morbidity, outcome, and patient preference regarding three different approaches to laparoscopic appendectomy were compared in a retrospective study. In addition, a group of 24 healthy women were surveyed by questionnaire about their preferred technique and expected cosmetic results.

RESULTS

Between January 1997 and August 2000, 149 patients underwent laparoscopic appendectomy and were assigned to undergo one of the three techniques. Operative results, morbidity, and hospital stay were similar. Twenty-five percent of patients submitted to technique 1 (no suprapubic trocars) were satisfied with their method, vs 54% of patients with technique 2 (one suprapubic port, angled working trocars) and 100% of patients with technique 3 (two suprapubic parallel trocars). Almost all patients (92% of those who had technique 1 and 100% of those who had techniques 2 and 3) chose the standard laparoscopic access as the cosmetically least attractive method. All of the healthy controls we interviewed preferred technique 3.

CONCLUSION

The placement of suprapubic trocars improves the surgeon's working position during laparoscopic appendectomy. A laparoscopic approach using two suprapubic trocars yields the best cosmetic results in the opinion of the majority of patients and healthy interviewees.