Our Summary

This study compared two different surgical approaches in laparoscopic colorectal surgery: medial-to-lateral (from the inside to the outside of the body) and lateral-to-medial (from the outside to the inside). The researchers looked at different measures of success, including how often the surgery had to be switched to a traditional open surgery, how long the surgery and hospital stay lasted, and how many lymph nodes were removed.

The results showed that the medial-to-lateral approach was better in several ways. It was less likely to be converted to an open procedure, the surgery and hospital stay were shorter, and there were possibly fewer complications. However, there was no difference in how many patients died or how many lymph nodes were removed between the two methods. A deeper look showed that the lateral-to-medial approach might be better for removing lymph nodes in some specific cases.

Despite these findings, the researchers advise that more high-quality studies are needed to confirm these results.

FAQs

  1. What are the two different surgical approaches compared in this study on laparoscopic colorectal surgery?
  2. Which surgical approach was found to be more beneficial in terms of likelihood of conversion to traditional surgery, duration of hospital stay, and potential complications?
  3. Are there circumstances in which the lateral-to-medial approach might be more effective than the medial-to-lateral approach?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about colorectal surgery is to discuss with their surgeon the best approach for their specific case. It’s important to have an open and honest conversation about the potential risks and benefits of each surgical approach in order to ensure the best outcome for the patient. Additionally, following post-operative care instructions and attending follow-up appointments are crucial for a successful recovery after colorectal surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for colorectal surgery include those with colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, rectal prolapse, or other conditions affecting the colon or rectum. Patients who have not responded to other treatments, such as medication or lifestyle changes, may also be candidates for colorectal surgery. Additionally, patients with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors may be recommended for surgery as a preventative measure. Ultimately, the decision to undergo colorectal surgery is based on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s individual health condition and needs.

Timeline

Before colorectal surgery, a patient typically undergoes a series of pre-operative tests and evaluations to ensure they are a suitable candidate for surgery. This may include blood tests, imaging scans, and consultations with various healthcare providers. The patient may also need to follow a specific diet or take medications to prepare for surgery.

After colorectal surgery, the patient will be closely monitored in the hospital for a period of time to ensure they are recovering properly. They may experience pain, discomfort, and fatigue in the days following surgery. The healthcare team will provide pain management, wound care, and instructions for post-operative care. The patient may need to follow a specific diet, gradually increase physical activity, and attend follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider.

Overall, the recovery timeline for colorectal surgery can vary depending on the individual patient, the type of surgery performed, and any potential complications that may arise. It is important for the patient to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions closely and communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms during the recovery process.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about colorectal surgery include:

  1. What type of colorectal surgery do you recommend for me and why?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. How long will the surgery take and how long will I need to stay in the hospital?
  4. Will I need to follow any special dietary or lifestyle guidelines before or after the surgery?
  5. How many lymph nodes will be removed during the surgery and why is this important?
  6. What is the likelihood that the surgery will need to be converted to an open procedure?
  7. What is your experience and success rate with this type of surgery?
  8. How can I prepare for the surgery and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options for my condition?
  10. Are there any specific factors or characteristics about my case that may influence the choice of surgical approach?

Reference

Authors: Hajibandeh S, Hajibandeh S, Navid A, Sarma DR, Eltair M, Mankotia R, Thompson CV, Torrance AW, Peravali R. Journal: Int J Colorectal Dis. 2019 May;34(5):787-799. doi: 10.1007/s00384-019-03281-7. Epub 2019 Apr 6. PMID: 30955074