Improving Quality in Colorectal Surgery

Abstract

Colorectal surgery is an important aspect of our current health system, due to the high incidence of colorectal cancer combined with an ageing population, improved long-term outcomes after colorectal surgery, and the perfectioning of the operative and postoperative aspects through laparoscopy and enhanced recovery programs. However, postoperative complications painfully remain, despite efforts of amelioration of perioperative care. Research for molecular pathways and non-surgical treatment modalities of colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease is rising in importance, however the improvement of quality and safety of colorectal surgery should remain and become ever more a key element for all colorectal surgeons. This thesis aims to add to this improvement.