Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026

08:26
Clinical Application of Single-Surgeon, Three-Port, Laparoscopic Resection for Colorectal Cancer with Natural Orifice Specimen Extraction
Published on: March 24, 2023
["Fast-Track" for laparoscopic-assisted rectum resection--what can be achieved? First results of a feasibility study]
1Klinik und Poliklinik für Chirurgie, Klinikum der Universität Regensburg.
Zentralblatt Fur Chirurgie
|November 8, 2006
Summary
Fast-track rehabilitation combined with minimally invasive surgery is feasible for rectal cancer patients, leading to quicker recovery and shorter hospital stays without increasing complications.
Area of Science:
- Colorectal Surgery
- Surgical Oncology
- Perioperative Medicine
Background:
- Minimally invasive surgery and fast-track rehabilitation are emerging strategies in colon surgery.
- Limited data exists on the combined effects of these approaches in rectal cancer treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of fast-track perioperative management on morbidity, recovery, and hospital stay in laparoscopic-assisted rectal resections.
- To compare these outcomes with previous findings.
Main Methods:
- A prospective pilot study involving 16 patients undergoing laparoscopic-assisted rectal resections.
- Implementation of an interdisciplinary fast-track protocol: no bowel cleansing, restrictive fluid management, early mobilization, and early enteral nutrition.
Main Results:
- Patients tolerated solid food by day 2, with most experiencing bowel movements.
- All patients regained pre-operative body weight by day 4.
- Median hospital stay was 7.5 days, with 12 patients discharged between days 6-8. Two readmissions occurred for ileus, and one for anastomotic leak.
Conclusions:
- Fast-track rehabilitation is a viable approach for rectal surgery.
- It appears to enhance the benefits of minimally invasive surgery without elevating complication rates.

