Minimizing complication rates in laparoscopic surgery for benign colorectal diseases

Abstract:

A decade has not yet elapsed since laparoscopic colorectal surgery was initiated. The literature in print so far reveals a few level one or two, some level three or four, and too many level five reports. Cosmetic advantages aside, it is no easy task to prove that laparoscopic approaches are advantageous over their open counterpart as far as the short-term outcome is concerned. The potential success attainable by laparoscopy will be hardly documented unless indications for surgery are not influenced by the change of access and complication rates remain within the range of traditional colorectal surgery. The latter is the task of this review, which deals with five categories for discussion including ergonomics, access-related morbidity, complications due to the procedure itself, conversion and surgeon expertise.