Short-term outcomes following laparoscopic resection for colon cancer.

Background: Laparoscopic resection for colon cancer has been proven to have a similar oncological efficacy compared to open resection. Despite this, it is performed by a minority of colorectal surgeons. The aim of our study was to evaluate the short-term clinical, oncological and survival outcomes in all patients undergoing laparoscopic resection for colon cancer.

Methods: From July 2005 to December 2008, 202 consecutive patients underwent laparoscopic resection for colon cancer. Surgery was analysed on an intention to treat basis. The mean follow-up was 24.3 months.

Results: Two hundred twenty-two patients underwent resection for colon cancer. Two hundred two underwent laparoscopic resection (91%). One hundred sixteen were male patients. Mean age was 65.9 years (range = 24-91). The median length of stay was 6.6 days (mean = 7.1 days). One hundred eighty-eight of 202 (93.1%) were completed laparoscopically. Fourteen (6.9%) were converted. The overall morbidity rate was 15.8%. There were three clinically apparent anastomotic leaks. The 30-day mortality was 1 (0.5%). The mean nodal yield was 13.4 (range = 8-37) nodes. There were no positive margins detected. Overall survival in laparoscopically treated colon cancer was 88.1%. In those patients with non-metastatic disease, the overall survival was 90.7% (165/182).

Conclusion: Laparoscopic resection for colon cancer is achievable in 85% (188/222) of patients. This facilitates adequate oncological clearance. It is associated with a low morbidity rate and favourable short-term survival outcomes. This data reflects the potential outcomes dedicated MIS colorectal units will have to offer colon cancer patients once laparoscopic colorectal surgery becomes the de facto surgical approach.