Comparing open and laparoscopic surgery for patients with rectal cancer 

This study compared the outcomes of patients with rectal cancer treated with either laparoscopy (LPS; removal of the tumor by using a cable with a camera inserted near the tumor) or open surgery. Researchers found no differences in outcomes between LPS and open surgery for these patients.  

Treatment for rectal cancer often involves surgical removal of the tumor. This can be done through classic, open surgery or through laparoscopy (LPS). LPS is a less invasive treatment alternative to open surgery This treatment improves short-term outcomes for patients in terms of pain, recovery, complications and quality of life. However, the long-term outcomes of LPS in stage 2 and 3 rectal cancer patients are still unclear.

This study included 462 patients with stage 2 and 3 rectal cancer who previously received chemotherapy. 240 patients underwent LPS and 222 underwent open surgery. Recurrence (return of cancer) was evaluated at 3, 6, 9, 12 and every 6 months thereafter. The main outcome measured was disease-free survival (DFS; time patients are alive without disease progression). The average follow-up period was 47.9 months.  

The 2-year DFS was 79.5% for patients who had LPS and 83.2% for patients who had open surgery. Local recurrence (return of cancer at the same place) was similar for both groups of patients (4.6% – LPS and 4.5% – open surgery). Distant recurrence (return of cancer in a different organ) was also similar between the two groups (14.6% – LAP and 16.7% – open surgery).

This study showed no outcome differences between LPS and open surgery in patients with stage 2 and 3 rectal cancer.