Laparoscopic surgery in complex Crohn′s disease

Objective To evaluate the feasibility and safety of laparoscopy in complex Crohn′s disease. Methods A retrospective study of patients with complex Crohn′s disease from Jan 2013 to Dec 2015 was conducted. The clinical data and the surgical outcome were evaluated. Results 137 patients with complex Crohn′s disease were involved in the study. 81 patients underwent laparoscopic procedure, the conversion rate was 30%.56 patients underwent conventinal laparotomy. The blood loss (50ml vs. 100 ml, Z=-4.84, P<0.001), stoma rate (28% vs. 45%, χ2=6.03, P=0.05), interval to bowel movement (3 d vs. 4 d, Z=-3.69, P=0.001) and postoperative hospital stay (8 d vs.14 d, Z=-5.41, P<0.001) were more favourable in laparoscopic surgery group than in laparotomy group. Conclusion Laparoscopy is feasible and safe in complex Crohn′s disease. In well indicated patients, preoperative optimization and surgical expertise can improve the outcome of Crohn′s disease. Key words: Crohn disease; Laparoscopes