New technique for sigmoid colectomy.

A combination of laparoscopic and rectoscopic procedures has enabled complete resection of the sigmoid colon and eliminated the need for minilaparotomy when constructing the anastomosis or withdrawing the specimen. This combined procedure was performed in different ways in a series of animal models until the definitive technique had been standardized. These techniques were then successfully used in 15 consecutive medium-sized pigs. Histological evaluation of the specimens, including the anastomosis (examined 2-3 weeks after operation) confirmed the efficacy and safety of the method.