Controversies in Colon and Rectal Surgery

[[author photo]]In this issue of Clinics in Colon and Rectal Surgery, we embrace controversy. Rather than ask contributors to give an authoritative unilateral view of a subject, we have encouraged them to square off and argue opposite sides of current controversial topics in colon and rectal surgery. We have invited these renowned experts in the field to be politically incorrect, to pull no punches, and to try to convince you, the reader, that their view is the correct one. You are then left to decide which philosophy will help you better manage your patients.

Topics addressed in this issue include

Is the laparoscopic colectomy appropriate for curable adenocarcinoma? Should the procedure for prolapsing hemorrhoids (PPH) stapled hemorrhoidopexy be used for symptomatic hemorrhoids? Which is the better operative approach for rectal prolapse: perineal or abdominal? Should neoadjuvant radiotherapy be routinely administered to patients with non-fixed rectal cancer? Which anastomotic approach is better for patients undergoing restorative proctocolectomy: double-stapled, or handsewn with mucosectomy? Is hand-assist technology a valuable tool for the laparoscopic colectomist or a crutch for the unskilled?

We hope that you will find the arguments set forth herein to be illuminating and entertaining.