Comparative Evaluation of Surgical Site Infection after Laparoscopic Versus Open Appendectomy

Abstract

Objective: to assess which of the two modalities (OA vs LA) is superior with regards to post-operative wound infection.
Material & Methods: This is a retrospective study that was conducted at surgical unit 1, Fatima Memorial
hospital Lahore from June 2021 to May 2023. 140 patients were segregated in two groups; group 1 had
laparoscopic appendectomy and group 2 who had open appendectomies. Primary post-operative outcome
with regards to wound infection was recorded on 7th postoperative day in each group.
Results: Surgical site infection was documented in 3 (4%) patients in group 1 and 9 (13%) patients in group 2.
Operation time was not found to be significant in both groups statistically (p= 0.342). WBC count was found
to be significant between both groups statistically (p= 0.003). length of stay in hospital was also significant
statistically (p=0.001).
Conclusion: Laparoscopic appendectomy seems superior to open appendectomy with regards to surgical site
infection. Operation time is not a determinant factor for development of SSI. Pre-operative WBS count is an
important predictive factor for development of SSI.
Keywords: Acute appendicitis, open and laparoscopic appendectomy, surgical site infection