Caudal-to-cranial Approach in Laparoscopic Right Hemicolectomy with Complete Mesocolon Excision and D3 Lymph Node

Fei Gao1, Jing Gao2, Hao Wang1

  • 1Department of General Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University.

Insights

Laparoscopic right hemicolectomy (LRH) presents challenges due to complex anatomy. A novel caudal-to-cranial approach combined with complete mesocolic excision (CME) and D3 lymph node dissection enhances safety and anatomical clarity.

Area of Science:

  • Surgical Oncology
  • Minimally Invasive Surgery
  • Colorectal Surgery

Background:

  • Laparoscopic right hemicolectomy (LRH) is effective but technically demanding due to vascular complexity and anatomical variations.
  • Traditional surgical approaches include lateral-to-medial and medial-to-lateral techniques.
  • Advancements in surgical technology have introduced multiple approaches for LRH.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To introduce and evaluate a novel caudal-to-cranial approach for laparoscopic right hemicolectomy.
  • To assess the feasibility of combining this approach with complete mesocolic excision (CME) and D3 lymph node dissection.
  • To determine if this method improves anatomical orientation and procedural safety.

Main Methods:

  • A caudal-to-cranial surgical approach for LRH was developed and applied.
  • The technique prioritizes establishing anatomical planes before vascular dissection.
  • The approach was combined with complete mesocolic excision (CME) and D3 lymph node dissection.

Main Results:

  • The caudal-to-cranial approach facilitated precise vascular management by defining anatomical planes early.
  • This method enhanced anatomical orientation, potentially reducing operative difficulty.
  • Initial experiences indicate the approach supports thorough lymph node dissection, proving feasible for CME and D3 dissection.

Conclusions:

  • The caudal-to-cranial approach is a feasible and potentially safer method for laparoscopic right hemicolectomy.
  • This technique supports comprehensive lymph node dissection, including CME and D3 levels.
  • Further investigation is warranted to validate its benefits in a larger cohort.

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