ObjectiveTo determine the survival curves for laparoscopic resection (LR) of colorectal cancer. Summary Background DataLaparoscopic resection for cure of colorectal cancer is controversial, and survival curves have not been determined. One of the most controversial areas of laparoscopic surgery has been laparoscopic resection (LR) for cancer, more specifically for colon and rectal cancer. 1'2 This controversy has been fueled by well-publicized anecdotal reports of port-site recurrences in patients undergoing surgery for a variety of neoplas- Methods

This novel scoring system is simple, accurate, and readily applicable in an office setting. It represents the large experience of one surgical group and remains to be validated by other centers.

Survival rates at 2 and 5 years are lower for patients in the converted group compared to patients with LR. This finding could have serious impact on the treatment of patients with colorectal cancer. Further confirmation is required.

Several preoperative factors that significantly affect outcomes in laparoscopic colorectal resections have been identified. Consideration of these factors may help in case selection and estimation of operating time; they should also be valuable when patients are informed of their risk of conversion and complications.