Developments in colorectal cancer surgery

Abstract

The developments in colorectal cancer since the 19th century are reviewed. Local recurrence of colorectal cancer after curative surgery is a major problem and may occur because of inadequate removal of the primary tumour and lymph node metastases, or intra-operative spill of tumour cells. Colorectal surgeons differ with regard to postoperative mortality. The best surgical technique has not yet been determined; there have been only two prospective randomised trials on surgical technique. However, it is predicted that laparoscopic surgery will have an important place in colorectal surgery.