Aim
To compare laparoscopic restorative proctocolectomy (RP) in children with the same operation performed using open surgery.
Methods
Case–control comparison of two consecutive cohorts undergoing procto-colectomy by one surgeon. Outcome variables measured were: operating time, blood loss, hospital stay and complication rates.
Results
Twenty-two children, mean age 13 years, underwent RP. Eleven laparoscopic cases were compared with the preceding open case. There was no difference in operating time (443 vs. 403 min, P = 0.479), blood loss (159 vs. 417 ml, P = 0.082), complication rate (4 vs. 1) or hospital stay (14 vs. 19 days, P = 0.192).
Conclusions
Laparoscopic RP is feasible and safe in children. The small number of children recruited may mask benefits in blood loss and hospital stay for laparoscopic surgery.