Complications in laparoscopic colorectal resection: main types and prevention

Most colorectal procedures can be done laparoscopically, as has been described by many authors. In the first 5 years of colorectal laparoscopic surgery, many complications have ensued, such as intestinal perforation, bleeding, infection, anastomotic leakage, and dehiscence. In 146 patients who underwent laparoscopic procedures from December 1991 to August 1996, 92 colorectal resections were performed. Most resections were performed for malignant diseases (48.9%) and the most common surgical procedure was rectosigmoidectomy (32.6%). Sixty-six patients (71.7%) were female, and the mean age was 59.4 years. Transoperative complications occurred in three patients (3.3%): one sigmoid perforation, one rectal perforation, and one case of left ureter transection. Postoperative complications occurred in 24 patients (29.3%): anastomotic leakage (4), intestinal perforation (1), incisional hernia (4), wound infection (8), shoulder pain (1), dehiscence of perineal wound (4), and colostomy necrosis (2). We concluded that laparoscopic colorectal resection is a safe surgical method and that the rate of complications is similar to that of the conventional method.