Surgical Complications of Laparoscopic Colectomy in Patients with Colorectal Carcinomas

Overview

Introduction:
The authors present their experience with laparoscopic resections of the large intestine in patients with colorectal carcinomas. The aim is to discuss and assess peroperative and early postoperative surgical complications.

Methodology:
From 1^st January to 30^th June, the team of authors operated over 350 patients with colorectal carcinomas. In 264 patients the team completed laparoscopic resections (laparoscopy-assisted) of the colo-rectum. Patients who, following an initial laparoscopic exploration, underwent a classical procedure and patients who underwent derivation stomies, eventually by- pass procedures, were excluded from the study group.

Results:
In 16 patients (out of the total 264 laparoscopic colectomies) the laparoscopic procedure was converted. The rate of peroperative complications was 3.4% and the rate of postoperative surgical complications was 14.4%. Five patients in our study group exited before the postoperative day 30. Two of these cases were directly related to surgical postoperative complications.

Conclusion:
Laparoscopic colectomy is a method of choice in patients with colorectal carcinomas. The more experienced the surgeon and the whole team, the lower the total lethality rate. The rate is similar to that of classical colectomies, however some indicators prefer the laparoscopic procedure.

Key words:
colorectal carcinoma – laparoscopic resection – complications