This is a translation of version 1, published on September 25, 1998. The latest version of this report is not available in English.
Laparoscopic surgery has been tested as an alternative to traditional open surgery in patients with colon cancer. Moderate* scientific knowledge concerning the short-term medical effects suggests that more rapid mobilization after surgery is possible, thereby shortening the duration of medical care. Poor* knowledge is available concerning the long-term medical effects. Some of the case descriptions suggest a suspected increased risk for relapse of cancer in the abdominal wall. Based on the material available, definite conclusions cannot be drawn concerning the risk for relapse. The effects on costs and the quality of life have not been evaluated. The assessment by SBU Alert suggests that this method should be used only within the scope of randomized controlled studies until further evidence becomes available.
*This assessment by SBU Alert uses a 4-point scale to grade the quality and evidence of the scientific documentation. The grades indicate: (1) good, (2) moderate, (3) poor, or (4) no scientific evidence on the subject.
This summary is based on a report prepared at SBU in collaboration with Assoc Prof Bo Anderberg, MD PhD, Huddinge University Hospital, and Martin Janson, M.D, Huddinge University Hospital. It has been reviewed by Assoc Prof Eva Haglind, MD PhD, Sahlgrenska University Hospital.
Alert is a joint effort by the Swedish Council on Technology Assessment in Health Care (SBU), the Medical Products Agency, the National Board of Health and Welfare, and the Federation of Swedish County Councils.
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