[Role of different ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery in sigmoid colon or rectal cancer surgery: a meta-analysis].

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of different ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery in sigmoid colon or rectal cancer surgery on 5-year overall survival rate and operative mortality.

METHODS

The results of several literatures from different countries on high or low ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery and prognosis were analyzed using meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Seven studies were included. The 5-year overall survival rate was compared between low and high ligation. The odd ratio (OR) for 5-year survival was 0.87 (95% CI=0.76-0.98, P=0.02), and the OR for perioperative mortality was 1.28 (95% CI=0.94-1.75, P=0.19).

CONCLUSIONS

High ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery may improve 5-year overall survival rate. Perioperative mortality may not be influenced by the level of ligation.