Determinants for postoperative complications after laparoscopic intestinal resection for Crohn's disease

Background There is lack of studies that define parameters predictive of complications following laparoscopic resection for Crohn's disease. Methods Between 1998 and 2008, 182 patients underwent laparoscopic intestinal resection for Crohn's disease at a single institution. Conversion occurred in 12 patients (6.6%). We aimed to identify risk factors for short-term postoperative complications (<30 days) by using univariate and multiple regression tests. Complications were defined according to the Clavien-Dindo classification (grades I-V). Data were obtained from an institutional database and individual chart review retrospectively. Results There were 25 (13.7%) complications after surgery. According to the Clavien-Dindo classification, complications were classified as grade I in 9 patients, grade II in 9 patients, and grade IIIb in 7 patients. There were no deaths after laparoscopic surgery. A low level of hemoglobin after surgery (r(s) = -0.15, P = 0.0441) and an elevated CRP before surgery (r(s) = -0.16, P = 0.0346) seemed to increase the likelihood of postoperative complications. Conclusion Laparoscopic surgery can be performed safely in Crohn's disease patients. An increased inflammation process before operation seems to be associated an eventful postoperative course.