Local recurrence and survival after laparoscopic mesorectal resection for rectal adenocarcinoma

BackgroundLaparoscopic resection for rectal cancer is controversial. Actuarial survival and local recurrence rates have not been determined.MethodsA prospective database containing 80 consecutive unselected laparoscopic resections of rectal cancers performed between November 1991 and 1999 was reviewed. Local recurrence was defined as any detectable local disease at follow-up assessment occurring either alone or in conjunction with generalized …