Current status of laparoscopic colorectal surgery in the emergency setting

Laparoscopic surgery has become well established in the management of both benign as malignant colorectal disease. However there has not been the same enthusiasm for the use of laparoscopy in emergency colorectal surgery. We have critically review the indications and the results of the laparoscopic approach for the treatment of acute colorectal disease. A systemic review based on comprehensive Literature research was made on Pubmed with the primary objective to identify all clinical relevant randomized controlled trials (RCT). However, other reports, population based outcomes studies, case series and case reports were also included. Cross-link control was than performed with Google Scholar and Cochrane library databases. We have reviewed the last years’ evident literature about this last topic and the results reported , although mainly early, controversial and focused on the short term, enabled us to generally conclude that in a proper setting, laparoscopic colorectal emergency surgery is feasible, effective, safe and beneficial for patients to be a part of a common surgical practice, as long as adequate training is obtained and proper preparation observed when more advanced procedures are attempted in critically patients.