Comparative Analysis of Laparoscopic Versus Open Appendectomy in Complicated Appendicitis
Background: Acute appendicitis is one of the most common surgical emergencies, and a significant proportion of patients present with complicated appendicitis, including perforation, gangrene, abscess, or peritonitis. While laparoscopic appendectomy has become the standard of care for uncomplicated appendicitis, its role in complicated appendicitis remains debated due to concerns regarding operative difficulty, infectious complications, and cost. Comparative evaluation of laparoscopic versus open appendectomy in complicated appendicitis is essential, particularly in tertiary care settings where advanced surgical facilities are available. Aim: To compare laparoscopic and open appendectomy in patients with complicated appendicitis with respect to operative parameters, postoperative recovery, complications, and cost. Materials and Methods: This comparative analytical study included 92 patients diagnosed intraoperatively with complicated appendicitis at a tertiary care hospital. Patients were equally divided into two groups: laparoscopic appendectomy (n = 46) and open appendectomy (n = 46). Demographic data, intraoperative findings, operative time, postoperative recovery parameters (pain score, time to oral intake, ambulation, and length of hospital stay), postoperative complications, and cost details were recorded. Results: Baseline demographic characteristics were comparable between the two groups. Operative time was significantly longer in the laparoscopic group (58.74 ± 12.36 minutes) compared to the open group (51.28 ± 10.94 minutes; p = 0.004). Laparoscopic appendectomy demonstrated significantly lower postoperative pain scores, earlier resumption of oral intake, shorter hospital stay, and higher rates of early ambulation (all p < 0.001). Surgical site infection was significantly lower in the laparoscopic group (8.70% vs 23.91%; p = 0.047), and overall complication rates were also reduced (15.22% vs 36.96%; p = 0.018). Although operative costs were higher for laparoscopic appendectomy, postoperative costs were significantly lower; however, total treatment cost remained marginally higher in the laparoscopic group. Conclusion: Laparoscopic appendectomy is a safe and effective approach for complicated appendicitis, offering superior postoperative recovery and lower morbidity compared to open appendectomy, with acceptable overall cost implications in a tertiary care setting.