PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to review the progress made in removing the colon with laparoscopic technique. BASIC PROCEDURES: Literature review and personal experiences. MAIN FINDINGS: Laparoscopy is a safe and efficacious technique for the removal of segments of the colon for benign indications. Malignant lesions can be removed laparoscopically with satisfactory margins, but long-term efficacy has not been established. Laparoscopic-assisted surgery appears to be associated with improved preservation of bowel and other physiologic function while decreasing narcotic requirements and length of hospital stay. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopy will likely be the technique of choice for removing segments of the colon in select situations.
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Robert W. Beart (1994) studied this question.
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