Laparoscopic left hemicolectomy: an annotated video vignette.

Abstract

Laparoscopic left hemicolectomy has matured into the gold standard for descending colon and left colonic flexure lesions [1]. The key steps of the procedure require selective ligation of the left colic artery (LCA) and the mobilization of the splenic flexure (SF) which can be performed with different approaches. In this video vignette, we present a narrated and annotated standardized left hemicolectomy with a medial to lateral dissection, and a combined, medial, lateral and gastrocolic dissection for the mobilization of the splenic flexure. The procedure is demonstrated in a stepwise manner, illustrating key anatomical landmarks.