Long tube for obstructing left-sided colon cancer

Background: Obstructing left-sided colon cancer is now managed by immediate resection and primary anastomosis using intraoperative mechanical bowel ir rigation. The aim of this study was to describe our new technique using a l ong tube for preoperative bowel decompression and intraoperative antegrade irrigation. Methods:A long nasointestinal tube was inserted and a balloon w as inflated with distilled water. The tube gradually went forward to the il eum end by peristalsis, and the small intestine became fully decompressed. At operation, antegrade colonic irrigation with warm saline was performed t hrough this long tube without insertion of a Foley catheter, Results: Immed iate colonic resection and primary end-to-end anastomosis using layer-to-la yer interrupted sutures was successfully performed in 4 patients with obstr ucting sigmoid colon cancer. Conclusions: This method avoids opening and cl osure of the cecum or ileum, and minimizes bacterial contamination. The tec hnique is simple and easy, and useful for immediate resection and primary a nastomosis of obstructing left; sided colon cancer.