Endoloop as the first line tool for appendiceal stump closure in children with appendicitis

Purpose The objective of this study is to compare outcomes for pediatric patients undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) performed either (1) using an endostapler (ES) to divide the appendix and mesoappendix or (2) using endoloops (ELs) to close the appendiceal stump and electrocautery to divide the mesoappendix. Methods We conducted a retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent LA for suspected appendicitis 4 years at a free standing children's hospital. The use of EL and ES was compared separately in patients with perforated and nonperforated appendicitis. We compared patient characteristics and outcomes. Results There were no significant differences in rate of postoperative abscess, rate of subsequent small bowel obstruction requiring operation or rate of intraperitoneal hematoma between the ES and EL groups for both nonperforated and perforated appendectomy cases. Superficial wound infection was more common in the nonperforated EL group (17/309, 5.5%) than in the nonperforated ES group (2/235, 0.9%; p = 0.007). Operative time for the EL technique (52.2 ± 15.8 minutes; p = 0.047) was shorter than for the ES technique (58 ± 23.2 minutes) for patients with perforated appendicitis. Conclusion EL stump closure and mesoappendix cauterization during LA is safe and effective in children with appendicitis, including perforated appendicitis.