Transgastric appendicectomy.

BACKGROUND

Experimental studies and small anecdotal reports have documented the potential and feasibility of transgastric appendicectomy. This paper reports the results of the new technique in a selected group of patients.

METHODS

From April 2010 transgastric appendicectomy was offered to all patients with acute appendicitis, but without generalized peritonitis or local contraindications.

RESULTS

Of 111 eligible patients 15 agreed to undergo the transgastric operation. After conversion of the first case to laparoscopy because of severe inflammation and adhesions, the following 14 consecutive transgastric procedures were completed. Two patients with initial peritonitis required laparoscopic lavage 4 days after transgastric appendicectomy, but no leaks were detected at the appendiceal stump or stomach.

CONCLUSION

These preliminary results have shown the feasibility of this innovative procedure. Additional studies, however, are required to demonstrate the specific advantages and disadvantages of this approach, and define its role in clinical surgery.