Evaluation of the Learning Curve in Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery

To provide a multidimensional analysis of the learning curve in major laparoscopic colonic and rectal surgery and compare outcomes between right-sided versus left-sided resections. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: The laparoscopic learning curve is known to vary between surgeons, may be influenced by the patient selection and operative complexity, and requires appropriate case-mix adjustment.

This is a descriptive single-center study using routinely collected clinical data from 900 patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery between November 1991 and April 2003. Outcome measures included operation time, conversion rate (CR), and readmission and postoperative complication rates. Multifactorial logistic regression analysis was used to identify patient-, surgeon-, and procedure-related factors associated with conversion of laparoscopic to open surgery. A risk-adjusted Cumulative Sum (CUSUM) model was used for evaluating the learning curve for right and left-sided resections.