Laparoscopically assisted colon resection for colon carcinoma - Perioperative results and long-term outcome

Background: The role of laparoscopic colon resection in the management of c olon cancer is unclear. The aims of this study were to compare perioperativ e results and long-term outcomes in patients randomized to either open (O) or laparoscopically assisted (LA) colon resection for colon cancer. Methods: A prospective randomized trial comparing O to LA colon resection w as conducted from January 1993 to November 1995. Preoperative workup, intra operative results, complications, length of stay, pathologic findings, and long-term outcomes were compared between the two groups. Statistical analys is was performed with t-test. Follow-up periods ranged from 3.5 to 6.3 year s (mean, 4.9 years). Results: No port-site or abdominal wall recurrences were noted in any patie nts. [GRAPHICS] Conclusions: These results suggest that laparoscopically assisted colon res ection for malignant disease can be performed safely, with morbidity, morta lity, and en bloc resections comparable with those of open laparotomy. Long -term (5-year) follow-up assessment shows similar outcomes in both groups o f patients, demonstrating definite perioperative advantages with LA surgery and no perioperative or long-term disadvantages.