The learning curve for performing colorectal resections was approximately 30 procedures in this study, based on a decline in operating time, intraoperative complications, and conversion rate. Learning was also extended to clinical care because it was appreciated that patients could be discharged to their homes more quickly.

The results indicate that LTAC can be performed safely with a statistically significant reduction in wound and long-term postoperative complications, as compared with its open counterpart. Operating time is increased, but there is a marked reduction in length of hospital stay. Preliminary results demonstrate that LTPC also is technically feasible and safe, with equal morbidity, mortality, and hospital stay, as compared with open procedures. Studies with larger numbers of patients and a randomized controlled trial giving special attention to patient quality-of-life issues are needed to elucidate the real advantages of this minimally invasive technique.

No abstract

We describe the clinical course of 23 patients considered for laparoscopic splenectomy. One patient was excluded on the basis of preoperative angiography findings, and two (9%) were converted to open surgery. In the remaining 20 patients who successfully underwent laparoscopic splenectomy, no mortality was reported; four postoperative complications (20% morbidity) occurred. Mean operating time was 3 h 35 min (135-300 min). After a mean postoperative stay of 3.9 days (2-9 days), all patients except two were back to normal activities within 2 weeks of hospital discharge. Preoperative splenic artery embolization, begun with the third patient, helped to reduce operative blood loss and made the procedure easier to perform. Laparoscopic splenectomy has become our procedure of choice for elective removal of normal-sized (< 11 cm long) or moderately enlarged (11-20 cm long) spleens.

Preoperative splenic artery embolization is not necessary for spleens shorter than 20 cm. Increased experience and mostly the lateral surgical approach have permitted a shorter operation and a low conversion rate (4%) similar to the rate achieved with embolization and the anterior approach in the initial stages of the study. Embolization is used for 20- to 30-cm spleens. The conversion rate is higher (17%), and blood replacement is required frequently (83%). Despite embolization, laparoscopic splenectomy for spleens longer than 30 cm is futile at this time (100% conversion).

The use of videotapes of operations enabled multiple raters to assess a performance reliably and shortened assessment times by 80%. This assessment technique shows potential as a means of evaluating the performance of advanced laparoscopic procedures by surgical trainees.

No abstract

Laparoscopic resection of transverse colon cancers is technically feasible and not associated with a significantly higher rate of complications or conversions or with impaired oncologic outcomes compared with patients having segmental laparoscopic resections for other colon cancers. Operating time is longer.