Laparoscopic colon surgery in a rat model. A preliminary report

The effects of laparoscopic colectomy on immune function require further study. Because the rat has been widely used to investigate the immune system we studied the feasibility of laparoscopic sutured colon anastomoses in a rat model. We used a low-pressure CO2 pneumoperitoneum, a 2.7-mm 30 degree wide-angle arthroscope and video system, and microotologic forceps and scissors to perform two-handed dissection and suturing of the rat colon. The procedures included laparoscopic division of the colon and colostomy (group A, n = 3), laparoscopic closure of a colotomy (group B, n = 4), and complete laparoscopic division and reanastomosis of the colon (group C, n = 4). One anesthetic death occurred in group C. Necropsy performed 1-15 days postoperatively revealed no anastomotic leaks and two anastomotic strictures. Laparoscopic sutured colon anastomosis in the rat is feasible and may provide a new model for the physiologic study of laparoscopic colon surgery.