The role of laparoscopy in the multimodality treatment of colorectal cancer

The utility of laparoscopic approaches to resection of colorectal cancer remains unproven. Advocates of the technique cite advantages in terms of smaller wounds, early postoperative morbidity, resolution of ileus, and return to normal activity. However, such findings have not been consistently identified in clinical trials, and more recent randomized studies have suggested that any benefit may be small. In addition, there remains real concern over the safety of these techniques in neoplasia. There remains at present a dearth of long term follow-up data with which to address this issue. The future place for laparoscopic resection of the colon and rectum for malignant disease therefore remains uncertain. This article reviews the current status of laparoscopic techniques in the management of patients with colon and rectal carcinoma.