Laparoscopic Versus Open Colorectal Resection Within Fast Track Programs: An Update Meta-Analysis Based on Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Colorectal Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Procedures
• Oncology

Background:

• Fast track (FT) programs aim to optimize patient recovery after surgery.
• Comparing laparoscopic and open colorectal surgery within FT protocols is crucial for clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic colorectal surgery versus open surgery within FT programs.
• To compare patient outcomes, including hospital stay and complication rates.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
• Searched Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, and CBM databases.
• Included 7 RCTs with 714 patients (373 laparoscopic/FT, 341 open/FT).

Main Results:

• Laparoscopic/FT group showed significantly shorter postoperative and total hospital stays.
• Overall complications were significantly lower in the laparoscopic/FT group.
• No significant differences observed in mortality, surgical complications, or readmission rates.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic colorectal surgery combined with FT programs offers significant benefits in reducing hospital stay and overall complications.
• This approach demonstrates comparable safety to open surgery within FT programs for colorectal cancer.
• High-level evidence supports the adoption of laparoscopic colorectal surgery within FT protocols.