LAPAROSCOPIC COLECTOMY - AT WHAT COST

The purpose of this study was to compare laparoscopic to open colectom y with respect to: 1) morbidity and mortality, 2) adequacy of resectio n for cancer (margins and number of nodes), 3) operative time, 4) post operative time for tolerating diet and discharge, and 5) total hospita l charges. A historical control group of open colon surgery patients w as used. Laparoscopic colectomy was completed in 18/24 patients and 6 were converted to open colectomy. There were no operative or periopera tive mortalities. In procedures for cancer, all margins were free of t umor. The average number of nodes in the laparoscopic group (LC) was h igher than in open colectomy (OC) group. The average operative time wa s slightly longer in the LC group compared to the OC group. Postoperat ive length of stay was shorter in the LC group, and considerably short er in the elective LC group. Corrected average total hospital cost was lower in the LC group than in the OC group. Laparoscopic colectomy ha s acceptable morbidity and mortality, is cost-efficient and seems to p rovide adequate resection for cancer, although long-term data will be crucial to this issue.