Laparoscopic Appendectomy-Is it Worth the Cost? Trend Analysis in the US from 2000 to 2005

LA results in higher costs and increased morbidity for patients with uncomplicated appendicitis. Nevertheless, LA is increasingly used. Patients undergoing LA benefit from a slightly shorter hospital stay. In general, open appendectomy may be the preferred approach for patients with acute appendicitis, with indication for LA in selected subgroups of patients.