Risk Factors for Complications Following Lateral Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection for Rectal Cancer

Background Lateral pelvic lymph node metastasis impairs the oncological outcomes of patients with rectal cancer. Although lateral pelvic lymph node dissection (LLND) might be an effective procedure for such patients, the associated risk factors for postoperative complications are unknown. Patients and methods The operative outcomes of 21 patients undergoing unilateral LLND and 26 patients undergoing bilateral LLND for rectal cancer were compared. The risk factors for complications were evaluated using a logistic regression model. Results Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that a longer operative time (≥480 min) was the most important risk factor for grade II or more postoperative complications according to the Clavien-Dindo classification (odds ratio=6.58; 95% confidence interval=1.35-32.1; p=0.020). A bilateral procedure was not a significant risk factor for postoperative complications. Conclusion Surgeons should make efforts to shorten the operative time to reduce the risk of postoperative complications.