BACKGROUND: Colonic polyps are usually removed endoscopically. Surgical intervention is reserved for large, inaccessible colorectal polyps that have underdone malignant transformation. Laparoscopic management of colonic polyps has gained a well-defined role.
METHODS: Since 1993, 650 laparoscopic colectomies have been performed in our department. Twenty-eight patients with large, sessile, polyps that have undergone malignant transformation underwent elective laparoscopic colectomy. Operative procedures included 14 sigmoidectomies, 10 low anterior recto-sigmoid resections, 3 right colectomies, and 1 left colectomy. Central ligation of vessels and lymph node dissection were preformed in all patients.
RESULTS: The main outcome measures include conversion rate (11%), morbidity (11%), and mortality (3.5%). The mean return of bowel function was 3.1 days, liquid intake 1.4 days, solid food intake 2.5 days, and mean hospital stay 8 days. The mean specimen length was 23 cm, and the mean number of retrieved lymph nodes was 15. Malignancy according to Dukes classification was in situ, n=4; A, n=15; B, n=4; C, n=4; and D, n=1. During follow-up, 2 patients developed liver metastases.
CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic colectomy is a technically feasible and effective method for treating large colorectal polyps that have undergone malignant transformation.