ABSTRACT
In an attempt to overcome some of the perceived barriers to laparoscopic colorectal
surgery, a hand-assisted technique has been developed. This article evaluates hand-assisted
colorectal surgery and identifies the main disadvantages. There remains an important
concern related to the technique of dissection, cost, and application of this approach
in laparoscopic colorectal surgery. Despite the initial perceived advantages in patient
outcomes, clinical trials have failed to identify improved outcomes in patients with
colorectal disease. Ultimately, we suspect this approach will not facilitate learning
and will not play a significant role in the advancement of laparoscopic colorectal
surgery. This discussion should allow the reader to recognize why this approach will
ultimately have a limited application in the development and progression of laparoscopic
techniques.
KEYWORDS
Hand-assisted - hand-port - HALS - laparoscopic colon surgery
