1 Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
2 Unit of Internal Medicine Critical Area, Garibaldi Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
3 Department of Surgery, Division of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Cannizzaro Hospital, 95021 Catania, Italy
4 Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
5 Department of Surgery, San Salvatore Hospital, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
6 Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “GF Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
7 Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
8 General and Emergency Surgery Department, Garibaldi Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
Correspondence to: Guido Basile, Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy (e-mail: gbasile@unict.it).
Editor: Weihua Gong
Abstract
Laparoscopic appendectomy has emerged as the preferred surgical approach for treating acute appendicitis, one of the most common abdominal emergencies. This review explores the key indications, technical benefits and ongoing controversies surrounding laparoscopic appendectomy. While diagnosing acute appendicitis is typically straightforward, atypical presentations due to variable appendix locations can complicate management. Advances in imaging and scoring systems have improved diagnostic accuracy, yet timely surgical intervention remains crucial. Compared to open appendectomy, laparoscopic appendectomy offers several advantages, including reduced postoperative pain, a shorter hospital stay, quicker recovery and better cosmetic outcomes. However, concerns persist regarding intra-abdominal abscess formation, operative time, and cost effectiveness, particularly in complicated or atypical cases. Additionally, debates continue on whether to remove a macroscopically normal appendix and the appropriateness of laparoscopic appendectomy in certain patient populations. This review synthesizes the current evidence to clarify the evolving role of laparoscopic appendectomy in managing both routine and complex cases of acute appendicitis.
Keywords
- acute appendicitis
- appendectomy
- laparoscopic appendectomy
- single incision laparoscopic appendectomy
- needlescopic appendectomy

