Factors Associated With Complications of Open Versus Laparoscopic Sigmoid Resection for Diverticulitis

BACKGROUND This study critically reviews sigmoid colon resection for diverticulitis comparing open and laparoscopic techniques. METHODS We conducted a retrospective review of all open and laparoscopic cases of diverticulitis between 1992 and 2001. Data analyzed included the following: indications for operation, postoperative complications, and incidence of laparoscopic conversion to laparotomy. Major and minor complications were analyzed in relation to patients' preoperative diagnosis, age, presence or absence of splenic flexure mobilization, length of stay, and laparoscopic sigmoid resection versus open sigmoid resection. RESULTS Over a 10-year period, 166 resections for diverticulitis were performed including 126 open cases and 40 laparoscopic cases. No significant differences existed in patient characteristics between the groups. Major complications occurred in 14% of patients, and the laparoscopic conversion rate was 20%. The presence of abscess, fistula, or stricture preoperatively was associated with a higher complication rate only in patients > or =50 years old undergoing open sigmoid resection. The length of stay between patients undergoing laparoscopic resection was significantly less than in patients having open resection. CONCLUSION Advanced laparoscopic sigmoid resection is an alternative to open sigmoid resection in patients with diverticulitis and its complications. Open sigmoid resection in patients >50 years may have a higher complication rate in complicated diverticulitis when compared with laparoscopic sigmoid resection (all patient ages) and open sigmoid resection (patients <50 years old). Regarding complications, no difference existed between the length of stay in patients with open vs. laparoscopic resection.