Laparoscopic versus open proctectomy for rectal cancer: patients' outcome and oncologic adequacy.

Background: The aim of this study was to compare laparoscopic management of rectal cancer to open surgery.

Methods: The medical records of patients who underwent elective laparoscopic or open proctectomy for rectal cancer between November 2004 and July 2006 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results: Thirty-two patients in the laparoscopic group (LG) were matched for tumor location, stage, comorbidity, and type of surgical procedure to 50 patients in the open group (OG).

Prophylactic ureteric catheters in laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of ureteric catheter placement in laparoscopic colorectal surgery and to assess the morbidity related to this procedure.

Methods: Between 1994 and 2001, 313 elective laparoscopic colorectal surgeries were performed. Patients with and without ureteric catheters were retrospectively analyzed.

Abdominal approaches for rectal prolapse.

The management of full-thickness rectal prolapse involves surgical intervention in the majority of cases. Many procedures have been described employing both perineal and abdominal approaches. Abdominal procedures result in more durable repair of the prolapse; however, the procedures require general anesthesia and are reserved for younger healthier patients.

Do elderly patients benefit from laparoscopic colorectal surgery?

Background: The steadily increasing age of the population mandates that potential benefits of new techniques and technologies be considered for older patients.

Aim: To analyze the short-term outcomes of laparoscopic (LAP) colorectal surgery in elderly compared to younger patients, and to patients who underwent laparotomy (OP).

Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent elective sigmoid colectomies for diverticular disease or ileo-colic resections for benign disorders; patients with stomas were excluded.

Laparoscopic vs. open surgery for acute adhesive small-bowel obstruction: patients' outcome and cost-effectiveness.

Background: Numerous studies have demonstrated the feasibility of laparoscopy in the management of acute adhesive small-bowel obstruction (AASBO). However, comparative data with laparotomy are lacking. The aim of this study was to compare laparoscopy and laparotomy for the treatment of AASBO in terms of patient outcome and cost-effectiveness.