Our Summary

This paper is about the risks and complications that can arise during a type of minimally invasive surgery known as laparoscopic left colectomy, which is often used to treat diseases of the colon. The authors reviewed multiple studies published between 1980 and 2020 to understand what can go wrong during this surgery, why these problems occur, how to prevent them, and how to manage them if they do occur.

The authors found that there are many different complications that can occur during this surgery, including injuries outside the surgeon’s field of view. They stress the importance of surgeons staying in control during the operation to quickly address any issues that come up. They also suggest that more reporting of complications can help to better understand why they occur and how to prevent or deal with them in the future. The authors note that the only surgeons who don’t experience complications are those who don’t perform surgeries, implying that complications are an inherent part of the surgical process.

FAQs

  1. What is a laparoscopic left colectomy and what diseases does it treat?
  2. What are some of the complications that can occur during a laparoscopic left colectomy?
  3. How can complications during a laparoscopic left colectomy be prevented or managed?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laparoscopic colectomy is to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by the surgeon and medical team. This may include fasting before the surgery, taking prescribed medications as directed, and avoiding certain foods or drinks. Following these instructions can help reduce the risk of complications during and after the surgery. Additionally, it is important for patients to communicate openly with their medical team about any concerns or questions they may have before the procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for laparoscopic colectomy include those with conditions such as colon cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal polyps, and other benign or malignant tumors in the colon. Laparoscopic colectomy is generally considered a safe and effective treatment option for these patients, as it offers advantages such as shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and reduced postoperative pain compared to traditional open surgery.

It is important for patients to discuss their individual medical history and condition with their healthcare provider to determine if laparoscopic colectomy is the most appropriate treatment option for them. Factors such as the extent of the disease, the patient’s overall health, and any previous abdominal surgeries may influence the decision to undergo laparoscopic colectomy.

Timeline

Before laparoscopic colectomy:

  • Patient will undergo pre-operative assessments including blood tests, imaging studies, and possibly a colonoscopy to confirm the need for surgery
  • Patient will be instructed to follow a special diet and bowel preparation regimen to clear the colon before surgery
  • Patient will meet with their surgical team to discuss the procedure, risks, benefits, and recovery process

During laparoscopic colectomy:

  • Patient will be placed under general anesthesia
  • Surgeon will make several small incisions in the abdomen to insert a laparoscope and other surgical instruments
  • The diseased portion of the colon will be removed and the healthy ends will be reconnected
  • Surgery typically lasts 2-4 hours

After laparoscopic colectomy:

  • Patient will be monitored in the recovery room before being transferred to a hospital room
  • Patient will be encouraged to start walking and resume normal activities as soon as possible to aid in recovery
  • Patient may experience some pain, bloating, and discomfort in the days following surgery
  • Patient will be given instructions on wound care, diet, and follow-up appointments
  • Full recovery can take several weeks to months, depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery

Overall, laparoscopic colectomy is a safe and effective procedure for treating colon diseases, but like any surgery, it carries risks and potential complications that patients should be aware of. It is important for patients to discuss any concerns or questions with their surgical team before undergoing the procedure.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with laparoscopic colectomy?
  2. How often do complications occur during this type of surgery?
  3. What measures do you take to prevent complications during laparoscopic colectomy?
  4. How do you handle complications that may arise during the surgery?
  5. What is your experience and success rate with laparoscopic colectomy procedures?
  6. What is the recovery process like after laparoscopic colectomy?
  7. Are there any long-term effects or complications I should be aware of after the surgery?
  8. How soon can I expect to return to normal activities after laparoscopic colectomy?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before undergoing laparoscopic colectomy?
  10. Can you provide me with more information on the specific approach and technique you will be using for my laparoscopic colectomy procedure?

Reference

Authors: Carrano FM, Spinelli A. Journal: Minerva Surg. 2021 Aug;76(4):316-323. doi: 10.23736/S2724-5691.21.08644-2. Epub 2021 Apr 14. PMID: 33855373