Introduction: pathology staging with the analysis of the number of retrieved lymphnodes is an important factor in oncologic safety of colorectal cancer resections,in conventional and laparoscopic surgery. In the beginning of a learning curvein laparoscopy, equivalence between these two types of approaches can be compromised.The purpose of this study was to evaluate the number of retrieved lymph nodesin colorectal cancer resection specimens between conventional and laparoscopicsurgery, and verify oncological equivalence between these techniques. Method:retrospective analysis of a case series of colorectal cancer specimens operatedwith conventional and laparoscopic surgery. Age, gender, type of operation, approach,staging and number of retrieved lymph nodes were analyzed. Statistical analysiswith Mann-Whitney method was performed. Results: 50 patients were operated inthe study period (33 with conventional and 17 with laparoscopic approach). Righthemicolectomy and high rectosigmoid resection were the most common proceduresperformed. The mean number of retrieved lymph nodes was 10,35 in the laparoscopygroup and 10,15 in the conventional approach (p=0,859). Conclusions: therewas no statistical difference between the number of retrieved lymph nodes in colorectalcancer resection specimens between laparoscopic and conventional approach, inthe beginning of a learning curve in laparoscopy.
