Laparoscopic resection for recurrent Crohn's disease: Safety, feasibility and short-term outcomes

Abstract

Aim: The safety, feasibility and short-term outcomes of laparoscopic resection were assessed in patients with recurrent ileocolic Crohn's disease. Method: A consecutive series of patients was identified from a prospectively collated database. Data included patient demographics, previous medical and surgical treatment, operative details and postoperative course. Data from the original index open operation were collected retrospectively by review of the case notes. Results: Between 2005 and 2009, 27 patients [21 women, mean (range) age 31years (16-51years)] underwent laparoscopic resection for recurrent ileocolic Crohn's disease. All had histologically confirmed recurrent disease at the ileocolic anastomosis. Five (18.5%) patients required extended resection for Crohn's colitis, three (11.1%) had fistulating disease and one (3.4%) patient had a psoas abscess. The median (range) operative time was 110min (70-170min) with a conversion rate of two (7.4%) of 27 patients. The length of stay was 4days (2-7days) with time to return to work or full activity of 3.5weeks (2-7weeks). Conclusion: Laparoscopic resection of recurrent ileocolic Crohn's disease is safe, feasible and associated with short-term benefits. © 2010 The Authors. Colorectal Disease © 2010 The Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland.