ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the safety, feasibility and results of laparoscopic assisted distal radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer. Methods Twenty-three cases of gastric cancer were subjected to laparoscopic assisted distal radical gastrectomy, D_(1+α)/D_(1+β) lymphadenectomy on 3 cases and D_2 lymphadenectomy on 20 cases. All cases received Billroth I reconstruction. Results Laparoscopic assisted distal radical gastrectomy was carried out in all cases successfully. The mean operative time was (205 ±38 )min, mean blood loss was (105 ± 66) ml and mean number of lymph nodes dissected was 19.7 ± 6.2 each case. The mean postoperative time of recovery of bowel function was (3.5 ±1.2) d,mean postoperative time of liquid intake was (4.9 ±0.9) d and mean hospitalization was (10.2 ± 2.7) d. No postoperative death or anastomotic fistula was found. Postoperative upper gastrointestinal bleeding occurred in 1 case and was cured by conservative treatment. Follow-up for 1-12 months revealed no recurrence or metastasis. Conclusions Laparoscopic assisted distal radical gastrectomy is a safe and feasible procedure with satisfactory short-term outcomes.Moreover,the short-term outcomes may be improved if the patients are treated under the notion of fast track surgery.