Laparoscopically assisted colonoscopic polypectomy - viable option for curative surgery in elderly patients

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer death globally.
• Early detection through screening programs improves outcomes and reduces the need for major surgery.
• Conventional colonoscopic polypectomy may not be suitable for all colorectal polyps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and quality of laparoscopically assisted colonoscopic polypectomy (LACP).
• To review institutional experience with LACP for complex polyp removal.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 21 LACP cases (2010-2016).
• Procedures combined laparoscopy and videocolonoscopy.
• Adenoma morphology classified using the Paris classification.

Main Results:

• 22 adenomas removed from 21 patients (mean age 65.33 years).
• Adenomas were more frequent in females; most were in the cecum (mean size 27.2 mm).
• One postoperative complication (bleeding) and one case of adenocarcinoma detected.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopically assisted colonoscopic polypectomy is a safe procedure with low risk, particularly for elderly patients.
• Essential to monitor patients post-procedure for recurrence detection.