[Surgical therapy of colon carcinoma with local invasion: a useful treatment?]

From 1977-1984, 56 patients with colon cancer adherent to other organs were operated. Twenty-three patients (41%) underwent palliative treatment without resection. The mean survival in this group was 6 months. In this retrospective study the results were analysed of 33 patients (59%) who underwent a resection with curative intent. Pathological staging was based on the Dukes, Astler & Coller classification. The 4-year survival rate was as follows: Dukes B 47%, Dukes C 29%, Dukes D 0%. The 4-year survival rate for the whole group was 33%. The postoperative morbidity and mortality were 6% and 3% respectively. Colon cancer with involvement of adjacent structures should not be regarded as an incurable Dukes D cancer: extended resection is indicated.