We herein describe our technique for performing a colectomy to resect colon cancer via a 7-cm minilaparotomy using conventional
surgical techniques and instruments. By moving the minilaparotomy wound laterally as well as either caudad or cephalad, the
mobilization of the relevant segment of the bowel loop was thus made possible. To ensure an adequate visualization of the
operative field during a dissection of the lymph nodes, an Omni-Tract retractor system was used. The division of the colonic
mesentery, transection of the affected bowel, and bowel anastomosis were performed extracorporeally or at the level of the
incision. This same operation was successfully performed in 102 patients with colon cancer. We conclude that a colectomy for
colon cancer via a 7-cm minilaparotomy is an attractive alternative to a conventional full laparotomy in selected patients.
Key word Minilaparotomy - Colectomy - Colon cancer
Received: March 9, 2001 / Accepted: July 17, 2001