[Can colorectal carcinomas be resected laparoscopically? Technically possible, long-term outcome is still uncertain]

The efficacy of laparoscopic resection of colorectal tumours was evaluated in a prospective observational study.

All patients with elective laparoscopic resection for colorectal tumours between 1995 and 1997 were included.

Laparoscopic resections were accomplished in 70 patients with a mean age of 61.9 +/- 15.6 years--most of them (n = 45) left-sided. The operative time was 232 +/- 75 minutes and the estimated blood loss 235 +/- 123 ml. In six patients (8.6%) laparoscopic-assisted procedures were performed, and no patient had to be converted to a conventional midline incision. Intraoperative complications occurred in one patient, postoperative general complications in 2.9% and surgical complications in 5.7%. Clinically relevant anastomotic leaks were not recorded. No patient died postoperatively. Reconvalescence was short, first bowel movement was documented after 3.3 +/- 1.3 days. Postoperative hospital stay was 10.1 +/- 3.1 days.

Laparoscopic resection of colorectal tumours can be accomplished with a low complication rate with proper selection of patients and experience of the surgical team. However, the indication for laparoscopic resection must consider all aspects of an oncological treatment.