Laparoscopic reversal of Hartmann's rectosigmoidectomy.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyse the outcome of laparoscopic restoration of bowel continuity post Hartmann's procedure.

METHOD: A prospectively electronic database of colorectal laparoscopic procedures between April 2001 and December 2006 has been used to identify surgical outcomes in 28 consecutive patients who have undergone laparoscopic reversal of an open Hartmann's procedure (LRH).

RESULTS: Twenty-eight patients (11 males), median age 66 (32-89), median body mass index 26 have undergone an attempted LRH over a 5-year period. Twenty (71%) had undergone surgery for complicated diverticulitis, eight (29%) for cancer; two followed an anastomotic dehiscence post-laparoscopic high anterior resection. The median operation time was 80 min (40-255 min). Twenty-six procedures (93%) were completed laparoscopically. There was one late conversion (to release a small bowel loop from the pelvis). A small, fibrotic rectal stump split whilst attempting a stapled anastomosis - the procedure was abandoned. The median time to normal diet was 18 h and median hospital stay was 3 days (1-63). There were three (11%) readmissions; wound infection (two) and abdominal pain. There were two deaths (7%) - mesenteric emboli and anticoagulant induced upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage.

CONCLUSIONS: We believe that in the hands of appropriately trained and experienced surgeons, laparoscopic 'reversal' of a Hartmann's procedure is a feasible, safe and largely predictive operation that allows for early return of gastrointestinal function and very early hospital discharge.