[Laparoscopic-assisted resection of colorectal tumours].
Two randomised controlled studies comparing laparoscopic-assisted and open surgery for colorectal cancer (the CLASICC and COLOR trials) have been published recently. There is now sufficient evidence that laparoscopic-assisted surgery is as effective as open surgery for cancer of the colon. There is no difference in short-term results (hospital mortality and complications) or 3-year survival rates. The substantial learning curve is a potential drawback for rapid implementation in daily practice and the procedure is associated with extra costs. The impact of the introduction of fast-track surgery has to be considered as another important way to reduce hospital stay. Wide application of laparoscopic-assisted resection of rectal cancer is not justified yet due to impaired short-term outcomes, such as increased circumferential resection margins and urogenital complications.
Bemelman
W A
WA
Academisch Medisch Centrum, Universiteit van Amsterdam, afd Chirurgie, Amsterdam.
Gouma
D J
DJ
D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000401:mortality / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000453:epidemiology; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D015996:Survival Rate; D016896:Treatment Outcome