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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2006; 19(1): 019-025
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-939527
Copyright © 2006 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Hand-Assisted Laparoscopic Colectomy: Rational Evolution for Diverticulitis

H. David Vargas1 , 2 , 3
  • 1Tidewater Surgical Specialists, Colorectal Division, Chesapeake, Virginia
  • 2Colon and Rectal Surgery Program, Sentara Careplex Hospital, Hampton, Virginia
  • 3Department of Surgery, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia
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Publication History

Publication Date:
07 April 2006 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Laparoscopic technique has proved to be a revolutionary advance in the surgical treatment of disease. However, limits exist regarding its application to colorectal resection as evidenced by the higher conversion rate and longer learning curve seen with colectomy. Conversion remains a complex issue related to multiple factors. One of the factors, inflammatory disease such as diverticulitis, exposes limitations of laparoscopic technique, specifically the absence of tactile sensation and use of one's hand as a surgical instrument. Nonetheless, the clinical benefits of smaller incisions, decreased pain, decreased ileus, and reduced hospitalization and disability make laparoscopic colectomy a compelling surgical option for the treatment of diverticulitis. Hand-assisted technique offers surgeons a practical and rational innovation for conventional laparoscopic colectomy and offers promise for improved feasibility and efficacy for the treatment of diverticulitis.

KEYWORDS

Laparoscopic colectomy - hand-assisted technique - diverticulitis

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H. David VargasM.D. 

Colorectal Division-Tidewater Surgical Specialists

3205 Churchland Blvd., Chesapeake, VA 23321

Email: dv700@aol.com