Oncologic outcomes after resection of rectal cancer: Laparoscopic versus open approach

BackgroundThis study examined outcomes of laparoscopic and open rectal cancer surgery in a community hospital setting.MethodsA community health care system cancer registry was reviewed retrospectively (2004–2007) for rectal cancer patients undergoing surgical treatment. Primary end points were rates of recurrence and survival.ResultsBoth open and laparoscopic resection groups had similar demographic, treatment, and tumor characteristics. Most patients in the open resection and laparoscopic resection populations experienced no recurrence (79% vs 83%, respectively; P = .5). Overall, the groups had similar mean (88% vs 96%, respectively; P = .4) and disease-free (21 and 23 months, respectively; P = .5) survival.ConclusionsIn a community hospital setting, laparoscopic resection of rectal cancer was found to be as safe and effective as open resection in selected patients.