Use of laparoscopic techniques in oncologic right colectomy in a canine model.

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of laparoscopic oncologic righ colectomy (RC) with intraperitoneal ileocolic anastomosis (ICA) in a canine model.

Methods: In 21 dogs a laparoscopic RC with transection of the main right colic artery and removal of adjacent lymph nodes (LN) was carried out using an Nd:YAG contact laser and endoscopic stapler. Two weeks after surgery, all animals were killed. The number of remaining right colon mesenteric LN, length of remaining right colic artery, bursting pressure (BP) of ICA, and postoperative morbidity were evaluated.

Results: No major intraoperative complications were recorded. One dog died of pneumonia and heartworms. There were no postoperative septic or anastomotic complications. All dogs passed feces within the first 24 h postoperatively. Median operative time was 135 min (range 105-180 min). Length of remaining right colic artery after oncologic resection was 4.5 mm (range 3-7 mm), the number of remaining LN was 0, and the median anastomotic BP was 232 mm Hg (range 132-312 mm Hg).

Conclusion: Oncologic resection of the right colon with high vascular ligation, wide mesenteric clearance of LN, and intraperitoneal anastomosis is feasible and safe in a canine model.