Learning curve in laparoscopic rectum surgery

Laparoscopic colorectal surgery has become increasingly more common since first being described in a publication in 1990. Despite a multitude of studies about the learning curve in laparoscopic colon surgery, there are almost no such studies with regard to laparoscopic rectum surgery. This paper aims to describe a surgeon's learning curve with regard to laparoscopic rectum surgery. Based on data collected in a prospective observational study of 180 patients, it can be established that a surgeon experienced in open colorectal surgery, with basic experience in laparoscopic surgery, after suitable preparation and having a personal interest in minimally invasive surgery, needs to perform about 35 laparoscopic rectum resections within 200 laparoscopic colon resections until selection rate, operating time and rates of general and surgical complications reach a plateau. A selection of cases suited to a surgeon's personal level of operating experience, is a prerequisite for a low rate of conversions and complications and for oncological long-term results comparable to those achieved through open surgery. However, the learning curve is dependent on a multitude of factors that are partly unknown at this point. Its duration most certainly varies between individual surgeons. Every surgeon is required to critically evaluate his or her own laparoscopic experience and select cases accordingly. Supervision by surgeons more experienced in laparoscopic colorectal surgery prevents disadvantages for patients in the early phases of the surgeon's learning curve. Training in laparoscopic colorectal surgery should take place only in institutions with a sufficient number of cases treated and a continuity in experienced teachers. CAMIC's efforts in establishing centres of competence and reference are therefore to be commended and supported.