[Statistical analysis of results of operative treatment of 223 cases of left colon cancer (author's transl)]

Abstract

Statistical analysis of results of 223 operations for left colon cancer over a period of ten years is presented. The patients (age, condition), and the clinical expression (urgent or cold surgery) are discussed. The authors then give the lesions a sort of identity card of macroscopic findings (topography, local extension, invasion of glands, metastatic spread) to enable interpretation of the long-term survival results as a function of each parameter. Their conclusions are that, apart from left hemicolectomy conducted for oncological reasons or for safety of technique, no element demonstrates the superiority of standard left hemicolectomy over segmentary colectomy. They also adopt the principle of a proximal colostomy in certain cases that are difficult to treat, this procedure being for them a definite factor of security, but also a risk factor. An urgent bypass operation is conducted except when the lesion requires excision. If conditions are suitable for immediate re-establishment of continuity, which rarely happens, they carry out a systematic protective subjacent colostomy.