LAPAROSCOPIC-ASSISTED ILEOCECAL RESECTION FOR CROHNS-DISEASE - A PRELIMINARY-STUDY

Background: The aim of the study was to present our preliminary result s with laparoscopic-assisted ileocecal resection in Crohn's disease of the terminal ileum. Methods: Eight patients were operated on. The ope rations were assessed with regard to duration of operation, rate of co nversion to open procedure, complications, time for discharge from hos pital, and ability to take up work. Results: Median operation time was 145 min. One operation (12.5%) was converted to open procedure. Minor complications occurred in one patient (12.5%). Median postoperative t ime for discharge was 5 days. Median time to return to work was 21 day s. Conclusions: Laparoscopic-assisted ileocecal resection seems suited to Crohn's disease, but the benefit of the method needs confirmation in controlled, randomized studies.