Port exteriorization appendectomy in children: An alternative to the conventional laparoscopic technique?

Introduction Laparoscopic appendectomy is usually performed using an  intracorporeal approach. The conventional procedure uses three ports. The port exteriorization appendectomy uses two trocars to perform the entire procedure and  can be considered an efficient alternative to the conventional approach, especially  in case of nonavailability of adequate material. We report our experience using port exteriorization appendectomy with the aim of evaluating this technique and  determining its feasibility for all grades of appendicitis. Patients and methods Between May 2013 and January 2014, 193 appendectomies  were performed in our department; in 50 cases (26%), a port exteriorization appendectomy was performed. Technical challenges, complications, and  postoperative recovery were determined and analyzed. Conclusion Port exteriorization appendectomy can beconsidered a safe and  economical approach to perform  pediatric appendectomy when conditions are  favorable. It allows minimizing minimally invasive surgery even further, enabling a low level of invasiveness and resulting in postoperative pain. Keywords : appendectomy, children, laparoscopy, port exteriorization