Technical considerations for oncologic colectomy Review


Authors: Bauer, P. S.; Wlodarczyk, J.; Widmar, M.
Review Title: Technical considerations for oncologic colectomy
Abstract: Colectomy for malignant tumors or unresectable benign tumors requires preoperative planning based on cross-sectional imaging, consideration of neoadjuvant therapy, a decision on the extent of lymphadenectomy, and comprehensive knowledge of the relevant anatomy. Imaging review is critical for determining resectability and noting any aberrant anatomy. Based on the imaging, neoadjuvant therapy should be considered for bulky or locally advanced disease. The anatomical resection of the colon, mesentery, and lymph node basins is performed in accordance with the concept of complete mesocolic excision (CME), entailing the resection of the mesentery with visceral peritoneum intact, appropriate proximal and distal margins taken en bloc, and high ligation of the primary feeding vessels along which the lymph nodes are positioned. High ligation of the colic arteries is part of a standard lymphadenectomy and is intended to address possible micrometastatic nodal disease and proper staging for adjuvant therapy. Extended lymphadenectomy in the form of CME with central vascular ligation is indicated for patients with advanced T stage or clinical lymphadenopathy. Whether extended lymphadenectomy should be performed routinely is subject to debate. In this article, we review the indications and operative strategies for management of colon cancer in various locations in the colon, as well as key considerations for minimally invasive colectomy and advanced techniques such as CME with central vascular ligation. © 2025. Thieme. All rights reserved.
Keywords: colon cancer; colectomy; complete mesocolic excision
Journal Title: Clinics in Colon and Rectal Surgery
Volume: 38
Issue: 5
ISSN: 1531-0043
Publisher: Thieme Publishing  
Publication status: Published
Date Published: 2025-09-01
Online Publication Date: 2025-01-15
Start Page: 305
End Page: 311
Language: English
DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1801356
PROVIDER: scopus
PMCID: PMC12321370
PUBMED: 40765674
DOI/URL:
Notes: Article -- MSK Cancer Center Support Grant (P30 CA008748) acknowledged in PubMed -- MSK corresponding author is Maria Widmar -- Source: Scopus
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MSK Authors
  1. Maria   Widmar
    79 Widmar
  2. Philip S. Bauer
    3 Bauer