Comparative Study of Polymetric Clips (Hem-o-Lok) Versus Historical Endoscopic Staplers for Laparoscopic Appendectomy
Comparative Study of Polymetric Clips (Hem-o-Lok) Versus Historical Endoscopic Staplers for Laparoscopic Appendectomy
The purpose of this study is to compare the clinical outcomes and the operative costs of
 appendectomy performed with the Hem-O-Lok polymetric clips compared to endoscopic staplers.
 Prospective data will be collected before, during, and after surgery on patients undergoing a
 laparoscopic appendectomy that have the Hem-o-Lok ® stapler used to close the stump after the
 appendix is removed. Use of the Hem-o-Lok ® stapler is standard for appendectomy patients at
 Duke Regional Hospital. Retrospective data will be collected from patients who had an
 appendectomy prior to 1/2012 using a different clip as part of their surgery, or an open
 appendectomy to compare outcomes.
Inclusion Criteria:

 1. 18 years of age or older

 2. scheduled to undergo a laparoscopic appendectomy because of a diagnosis of
 appendicitis based on clinical history or radiographic imaging.

 Exclusion Criteria:

 1. Less than 18 years of age

 2. Signs of appendiceal rupture or abcess on preoperative imaging studies (CT or
 ultrasound)

 3. Inability to provide informed consent