Laparoscopic surgery is associated with improved quality of life in patients with colorectal cancer

This study investigated the quality of life of patients with colorectal cancer treated with surgery. Researchers suggested that laparoscopic surgery (LS) is associated with an improved quality of life.

The standard treatment for colorectal cancer is open surgery or LS. LS consists in inserting a tube with a camera through a body opening to remove the tumor. LS is less invasive and is associated with fewer complications after surgery. This results in an improved quality of life for these patients when compared to open surgery. However, the long-term quality of life associated with colorectal surgery remains unclear.

This study included 67 patients with colorectal cancer who received open surgery (OS; 35) or LS (32). These patients were followed-up at 6 and 18 months. Quality of life was assessed through a questionnaire.

Patients who received LS had a better quality of life after 6 months when compared to open surgery. At 18 months these patients reported having a better physical function and overall quality of life.

Patients who received LS also reported having a better acceptance of illness. These patients also reported better body image and body mass.

This study concluded that LS is associated with improved quality of life over open surgery in colorectal cancer.

This study concluded a limited number of participants. Further studies with a larger population are needed.