Laparoscopic versus open surgery for rectal cancer after neoadjuvant chemoradiation: Long-term outcomes of a propensity score matched study

Background and ObjectivesLaparoscopic resection for rectal cancer has short-term benefits when compared to open resection. The aim of this study was to compare the long-term oncological outcomes of laparoscopic and open resection for rectal cancer following neoadjuvant chemoradiation (NCRT). MethodsIn this propensity matched study, a series of 72 patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery for rectal cancer following NCRT between 2004 and 2010 (Lap group) were matched with 72 patients who underwent open surgery for rectal cancer in the same period (Open group). The survival and recurrence patterns were compared between the two groups. ResultsAfter a median follow-up of 69.5 months (range 1-138 months), local recurrence rate was observed in 4 patients (5.5%) and 7 patients (9.7%) in the Lap and Open groups, respectively (P=0.35). The 5- and 10-year disease-free survival in the Lap and Open groups were 61.3% versus 47.9% and 48.8% versus 41%, respectively (P=0.16). The 5- and 10-year overall survival was 66.9% versus 60.2% and 49% versus 46.2% in the Lap and Open groups, respectively (P=0.38). ConclusionLaparoscopic surgery following NCRT for low and mid third rectal cancers was associated with similar long-term oncological outcomes when compared to open surgery.