Laparoscopic vs open surgical approach for intussusception requiring operative intervention.

PURPOSE: Laparoscopy has recently been used to treat intussusception that cannot be reduced radiologically. The effectiveness and practical nature of this approach has been questioned.

METHODS: This study retrospectively analyzed the authors' experience with this laparoscopic approach and compared this to the conventional open laparotomy procedure.

RESULTS: Sixteen patients were treated via laparoscopy, with 2 of these requiring conversions to an open procedure (12.5%). Twenty-five patients underwent an open reduction. Operative time was not significantly different (P = .698) between the laparoscopic (49.56 +/- 26.40 minutes) and open groups (45.00 +/- 24.74). Length of stay, however, was significantly reduced (P = .005) in the laparoscopic group (3.00 +/- 1.31 days) compared to the open group (4.52 +/- 1.98). Total hospital charges were lower in the laparoscopic group ($8171 +/- 2595) compared to the open group ($11,672 +/- 5466); this difference was not significant (P = .088). There were no significant differences in intra- or postoperative complication rates (P = .637) between the 2 approaches.

CONCLUSIONS: Although there remains a group who will require a conversion to an open procedure, the laparoscopic approach should be considered a safe and effective option for all children who do not respond to a radiological reduction.