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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2006; 19(1): 005-012
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-939525
Copyright © 2006 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Immunologic and Oncologic Implications of Laparoscopic Surgery: What Is the Latest?

Sang W. Lee2 , Richard L. Whelan1
  • 1Department of Surgery, New York Presbyterian Hospital of Columbia University, New York, New York
  • 2Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York
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Publication History

Publication Date:
07 April 2006 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Laparoscopic surgery has been associated with many short-term benefits such as a shorter time to recovery, return of bowel function, less pain, and a decrease in wound infection rate. Several animal and human experiments have demonstrated an immunologic and oncologic benefit of minimally invasive surgery. Whether these results will translate into similar results in human settings is unclear. Although the first published prospective randomized clinical trial suggests better long-term outcomes for patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery, results from other ongoing randomized, controlled clinical trials are needed to verify this controversial result.

KEYWORDS

Laparoscopy - immunology - oncology

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Sang W LeeM.D. 

New York Presbyterian Hospital

525 East 68th St., Box 172, New York, NY 10021

Email: sal2013@med.cornell.edu