Laparoscopic rectal resections and fast-track surgery: what can be expected?

BackgroundWe present the results of combining protocols of standardized laparoscopic rectal resection (LRR) and perioperative fast track care.MethodsPatients undergoing LRRs were identified from a prospectively maintained, institutional review board–approved database. Perioperative fast track care and laparoscopic operations were performed according to a standardized system.ResultsThirty-seven patients were included. Conversion was performed in 2 males (5%). The mean operative time was 184 minutes (range 109 to 410 minutes). The mean hospital stay was 3.0 days (range 1 to 8 days) with 90% of patients discharged less than 5 days after surgery. No anastomotic leaks or mortality occurred and the in-hospital complications rate was 8%. Readmission occurred in 3 patients (8%). No specimen had involved distal or circumferential resection margins.ConclusionsLRRs can be performed safely and effectively for rectal pathologies. Laparoscopy in conjunction with modern perioperative care provides rapid recovery with efficient use of hospital resources.