What is laparoscopic left hemicolectomy?
During the operation, the distal part of the transverse colon, the splenic flexure, and the descending colon are removed, and, if necessary, part of the sigmoid colon. The corresponding blood vessels, mesocolon, and regional lymph nodes are removed together with the specimen.
After resection, an anastomosis is created between the transverse and sigmoid colon or between the transverse colon and the rectum, depending on the extent of the operation.
Our approach
At MSI, every operation is planned individually after a comprehensive examination that includes endoscopy, computed tomography, and morphological confirmation of the diagnosis. The treatment strategy is determined according to the location of the disease, its stage, and the patient's overall condition.
For malignant tumors, we follow the principles of *Complete Mesocolic Excision (CME) with Central Vascular Ligation (CVL)*, which ensure radical removal of the tumor together with the mesocolon and regional lymph nodes in line with modern international standards.
Preference is given to the laparoscopic approach, which reduces postoperative pain, speeds up recovery, and shortens the hospital stay. After surgery, the principles of *ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery)* are applied for the fastest and safest possible return to normal life.
When is surgery needed?
Laparoscopic left hemicolectomy is performed for:
- cancer of the descending colon
- tumors of the splenic flexure
- certain tumors of the distal transverse colon
- large adenomas that cannot be removed endoscopically
- benign tumors
- certain complicated diseases of the left half of the colon
Indications for surgery
Surgery is recommended for:
- malignant tumors of the left half of the colon
- large precancerous lesions
- cases where radical endoscopic treatment is impossible
- bleeding, obstruction, or perforation related to disease of the left half of the colon
How is the operation performed?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia through several small incisions.
After the bowel is mobilized, the vessels are ligated, the affected segment is removed together with the mesocolon and regional lymph nodes, and an intestinal anastomosis is then created. The removed specimen is sent for histopathological examination.
Advantages of laparoscopic surgery
- Less surgical trauma
- Less postoperative pain
- Lower risk of infectious complications
- Faster recovery of bowel function
- Shorter hospital stay
- Better cosmetic result
- Oncological radicality in line with international standards
Recovery after surgery
Postoperative care follows ERAS protocols. Early mobilization, a gradual return to eating, and effective pain control help restore bowel function quickly and support a return to normal life.
Our advantages
- Complex laparoscopic colorectal surgery
- Oncological surgery according to CME and CVL principles
- Modern laparoscopic equipment
- Adherence to NCCN, ESMO, and ASCRS international guidelines
- A multidisciplinary approach to treatment
- Enhanced recovery protocols (ERAS)
Frequently Asked Questions
In most cases, yes. However, if the tumor is extensive or there are other technical difficulties, open surgery may be necessary.
In a planned left hemicolectomy, a stoma is needed only in certain clinical situations. In most cases, bowel continuity is restored during the operation.
Yes. For cancer, lymph node dissection is always performed in line with modern international standards.
Recovery times vary, but thanks to the laparoscopic approach, most patients recover faster than after open surgery.
Once the histopathology results are available, the multidisciplinary team assesses whether adjuvant chemotherapy or further follow-up is needed.