Introduction
Laparoscopic, or key-hole surgery, is generally the preferred option for a range of colorectal procedures, including those relating to:
- Colorectal cancer.
- Large polyps.
- Diverticulitis.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (i.e. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis).
- Rectal prolapse.
These procedures may involve the removal ('resection') of sections of the colon and/or rectum. Laparoscopic colorectal surgery requires extensive subspecialty training as it is complex and technically demanding surgery and should generally be performed by specialist colorectal surgeons.
The advantage of laparoscopic colorectal surgery, as with laparoscopic surgery in general, is reduced wound complications, faster recovery, fewer days in hospital and quicker return to normal activities. Not all patients are suitable for laparoscopic surgery however, in which case open (‘conventional’) surgery may be recommended or may be the only option available.
For specific procedure information and preoperative and postoperative instructions relating to a particular procedure, please visit the relevant section on this website.
