Outcomes of laparoscopic colorectal surgery in obese and nonobese patients: a case-matched study of 180 patients

Background

Because it has been suggested that obese patients may be at higher risk of morbidity and mortality after surgery, we conducted a prospective case-matched study to compare outcomes of elective laparoscopic colorectal surgery in obese and nonobese patients.

Methods

Sixty-two consecutive nonselected obese patients (body mass index ≥30 kg/m²) were matched with 118 nonobese patients. Postsurgical mortality and morbidity were defined as in-hospital death and complications.

Results

Cardiopulmonary comorbidities were significantly more frequent in obese compared with nonobese patients (44% vs 24%, P < .01). Obesity was significantly associated with increased mean operating time (268 ± 74 min vs 232 ± 59 min, P < .001), and conversion rate (32% vs 14%, P < .01). The mortality rate was nil. The overall postsurgical morbidity rate (31% vs 19%, P = not significant) and mean hospital stay (11 ± 10 days vs 9 ± 8 days, P = not significant) were similar in obese and nonobese patients.

Conclusions

The results of this large case-matched study suggest that laparoscopic approach for colorectal surgery is feasible and safe in obese patients.