Laparoscopic vs open gastrectomy. A retrospective review.

BACKGROUND: The totally laparoscopic approach to partial gastrectomy had not been compared previously with results of the open technique. This study compares the results of a series of laparoscopic cases with matched open cases. METHODS: A retrospective case-matched study was performed in 36 patients (18 laparoscopic surgeries, 18 open surgeries). Each laparoscopic case was matched for patient age and indication for surgery. The intraoperative and postoperative details of the two groups were compared. RESULTS: Laparoscopic surgery resulted in less blood loss, although operative time was increased. Nasogastric tubes were less likely to be used after laparoscopic surgery, and patients in the laparoscopic group had an earlier return to normal bowel function than those in the open group. Length of hospital stay was 2 days shorter in the laparoscopic group. CONCLUSIONS: The totally laparoscopic approach to partial gastrectomy is an excellent alternative to the more traditional open approach. It results in a more rapid return of intestinal function and a shorter hospital stay.