Efficacy of the LigaSure system vs UltraCision harmonic scalpel in laparoscopic appendectomy for the management of acute appendicitis.

INTRODUCTION: Acute appendicitis is the most common abdominal surgical emergency worldwide, with peak incidence between the second and third decades of life. Appendectomy, performed for over a century, remains the standard treatment. AIM: We aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic appendectomy using the LigaSure system vs UltraCision harmonic scalpel (HS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective comparative observational study was conducted from January 2023 to January 2025, and included 600 patients diagnosed with suspected acute appendicitis at 2 research centers. The patients were randomized into 2 equal groups: Group A (n = 300) underwent laparoscopic appendectomy using the UltraCision HS, and Group B (n = 300) underwent the procedure using the LigaSure system. RESULTS: All 600 procedures were completed laparoscopically without conversion to open surgery. Mean (SD) operative time was 27.4 (6.7) minutes (range, 24-49 min) for Group A and 28.1 (7.4) minutes (range, 25-51 min) for Group B. Mean hospital stay was 1.14 (0.53) days for Group A and 1.16 (0.47) days for Group B. No major complications occurred. Two cases of minor postoperative complication (fever) were recorded (1 in each group), both of which resolved completely within 1 week. CONCLUSIONS: Both the LigaSure system and UltraCision HS are safe and effective for laparoscopic appendectomy in acute appendicitis, resulting in short operative times, minimal postoperative pain, low complication rates, and brief hospital stays.