[Laparoscopic resection of colon carcinoma]

Although the laparoscopic treatment of colon cancer was introduced more than a decade ago, its application is still under debate. The minimally invasive approach slightly shortens postoperative recovery and hospital-stay as compared to open resection of colon cancer. The disease-free and overall survival following the laparoscopic resection of colon cancer are similar to those of the open procedure, but the data are still limited. Over the next few years, more solid data will become available concerning the effects on long-term survival, quality of life and cost-effectiveness. At present, wide application outside of clinical trials should not be favoured. The laparoscopic technique has a long learning curve and can only be offered as a safe procedure if sufficient expertise is available.