Laparoscopic colectomy for sigmoid diverticulitis: A prospective study in the elderly

Background/Aims: The aim of this prospective study was to determine the feasibility and the complications or benefits of laparoscopic colectomy for sigmoid diverticulitis in patients aged 75 years or more. Methodology: From January 1993 to December 1999, 85 patients underwent an elective colectomy for sigmoid diverticulitis. Twenty-two patients over 75-years old (group 1) were compared to 63 younger patients (group 2). Results: In group 1, there were 12 women and 10 men, with a mean age of 77.2 years (range: 75-82); In group 2, there were 35 women and 28 men, with a mean age of 53.7 years (range: 38-74) (P=1.10-14). The operative time was shorter in group 2 (183 vs. 234min). There was no difference between the 2 groups with regard to the postoperative period during which parenteral analgesics were required (5.4 vs. 5.2 days, P=0.48) and the postoperative morbidity (18% vs. 14%, P=0.06). Postoperative length of hospital stay (13.1 vs. 8.8 days, P=0.003) was shorter in group 2 than in group 1. There was no perioperative mortality. Conversion rate was 9% (group 1) and 6% (group 2) (P=0.6). Conclusions: In summary, data from the present study suggest that laparoscopic colectomy for sigmoid diverticulitis can be applied safely to older patients with fewer complications, less pain, shorter hospital stay and a rapid return to preoperative activity levels.