Implementation of laparoscopic colorectal surgery in a spoke hospital: Analysis of the results from a dedicated unit in a spoke center

Introduction: Despite its operative benefits and oncological noninferiority, video-laparoscopic colorectal surgery is still underutilized. This study analyses the results of a program for the implementation of video-laparoscopic colorectal surgery in a spoke hospital after the COVID-19 outbreak. Methods: Patients were enrolled between January 2022 and May 2024 in a single center. The procedures encompassed all sections of the colon and rectum. The same team performed all the surgical treatments. The same team performed all surgeries, which were elective. Results: Right hemicolectomy was the most common operation performed. Intestinal continuity was restored through extracorporeal anastomosis. The laparoscopic approach was used in 98 operations (76%), while 30 operations (24%) were performed using the open technique. The conversion rate was 18.75%. Conclusions: Currently, 83% of colorectal surgeries in Italy use a laparoscopic technique. Our study shows an increasing trend in the minimally invasive approach (76%), which is almost in line with the national average, despite the sample coming from a spoke hospital.