Oncologic outcomes of single-incision laparoscopic surgery for right colon cancer: A propensity score-matching analysis

Background The aim of this study was to investigate oncologic, perioperative, and pathologic outcomes of single-incision laparoscopic right hemicolectomy (SILRC) compared to conventional laparoscopic right hemicolectomy (CLRC) for right colon cancer using propensity score-matching analysis. Materials and methods From November 2009 through September 2014, 260 consecutive patients underwent laparoscopic surgery for right colon cancer. Data on short-term and long-term outcomes were collected and reviewed. Propensity score-matching was applied at a ratio of 1:2 to compare the SILRC (n = 40) and the CLRC (n = 80) groups. Results Operation time, estimated blood loss, time to diet were not different; however, the SILRC group showed less pain on operative day and postoperative day #2 (4.8 vs. 5.9, p < 0.001 and 3.6 vs. 4.6, p = 0.006, respectively) as well as shorter incision lengths (4.0 vs. 7.3 cm, p < 0.001). Morbidity, mortality, and pathologic outcomes were similar between groups. The 3-year overall survival rates were 96.0% vs. 97.5% (p = 0.740), and disease-free survival rates were 93.5% vs. 97.5% (p = 0.444) in the SILRC and the CLRC groups, respectively. Conclusion The long-term oncologic outcomes as well as short-term outcomes of SILRC were comparable to CLRC. It appears to be a safe and feasible option with shorter incision lengths.