Laparoscopic colorectal surgery in learning curve: Role of implementation of a standardized technique and recovery protocol. A cohort study.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Despite the proven benefits, laparoscopic colorectal surgery is still under utilized among surgeons. A steep learning is one of the causes of its limited adoption. Aim of the study is to determine the feasibility and morbidity rate after laparoscopic colorectal surgery in a single institution, "learning curve" experience, implementing a well standardized operative technique and recovery protocol. METHODS: The first 50 patients treated laparoscopically were included. All the procedures were performed by a trainee surgeon, supervised by a consultant surgeon, according to the principle of complete mesocolic excision with central vascular ligation or TME. Patients underwent a fast track recovery programme. Recovery parameters, short-term outcomes, morbidity and mortality have been assessed. RESULTS: Type of resections 20 left side resections, 8 right side resections, 14 low anterior resection/TME, 5 total colectomy and IRA, 3 total panproctocolectomy and pouch. Mean operative time 227 min; mean number of lymph-nodes 18.7. Conversion rate 8%. Mean time to flatus 1.3 days; Mean time to solid stool 2.3 days. Mean length of hospital stay 7.2 days. Overall morbidity 24%; major morbidity (Dindo-Clavien III) 4%. No anastomotic leak, no mortality, no 30-days readmission. CONCLUSION: Proper laparoscopic colorectal surgery is safe and leads to excellent results in terms of recovery and short term outcomes, even in a learning curve setting. Key factors for better outcomes and shortening the learning curve seem to be the adoption of a standardized technique and training model along with the strict supervision of an expert colorectal surgeon.