The increasing use of laparoscopic techniques in colorectal surgery is controversial. The technical feasibility of such methods is now beyond doubt; however, their clinical evaluation is at an early stage. The expectation that the laparoscopic approach would confer benefit to patients in terms of reduced postoperative pain and other morbidity has been questioned. The safety of these methods in neoplasia is unproven. This article presents those laparoscopic resectional techniques available to the colorectal surgeon. The authors' personal experience with these procedures is reviewed and those issues of controversy are discussed, with particular reference to the question of the suitability of these techniques for the treatment of malignancy.
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