Published in:
01-02-2016 | Original Article
Initial retrocolic endoscopic tunnel approach (IRETA) for complete mesocolic excision (CME) with central vascular ligation (CVL) for right colonic cancers: technique and pathological radicality
Published in: International Journal of Colorectal Disease | Issue 2/2016
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Introduction
The concept of complete mesocolic excision (CME) with central vascular ligation (CVL) for treatment of right colon cancer evolved over last one decade. It decreases local recurrences and improves the survival rates. We describe our novel technique which involves first posterior sharp dissection between planes of parietal and visceral fascia of mesocolon followed by ligation of ileocolic, right colic and middle colic pedicles at their origin. We highlight the technical variations with various techniques and advantages over conventional medial to lateral approach in current study.
Aim
The outcomes were measured in terms of technical feasibility, short-term outcomes and pathological radicality of current laparoscopic technique (IRETA) for CME with CVL.
Materials and methods
Two hundred twelve patients (163 males) who underwent laparoscopic CME for right colon cancer over the period of January 2009 to December 2013 were analysed via prospectively maintained database.
Results
97.16 % of patients (n = 206) underwent laparoscopic CME while six patients required open conversion. Mean operative time was 142 ± 28.4 min with median hospital stay of 5 days (range 4–11). The median count of lymph node harvested were 24 (range 10–42). The complete mesocolic excision plane was achieved in 93.8 % patients. 84.4 % (n = 179) of our patients were having (T3, N+) disease on pathological examination. The overall morbidity (<30 days) was 9.9 %.
Conclusion
Laparoscopic initial retrocolic endoscopic tunnel approach (IRETA) for CME with CVL in right colonic cancers is safe, simpler and feasible laparoscopic approach with minimal complications. Creation of retro colic tunnel is key highlight of IRETA approach. This approach becomes especially useful in patients with late presentations where complete mesocolic excision remains essential to enhance oncological radicality as per evidence available.