LAPAROSCOPIC VERSUS OPEN APPENDICECTOMY FOR COMPLICATED APPENDICITIS IN CHILDREN: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

Systematic review comparing laparoscopic versus open appendectomy in children with complicated appendicitis shows laparoscopy results in shorter hospital stays, fewer surgical site infections, and lower overall complications despite longer operative times. Evidence supports laparoscopy as the preferred approach for complicated appendicitis in pediatric patients.