Comparison Between Transverse Skin Crease and Vertical Midline Incision for the Resection of Right Sided Colonic Cancer

Abstract

Background: Vertical midline incisions provide good access for right colon resection, but transverse skin crease incisions are increasingly favored for easier operation, reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays. The aim of this study is to compare the feasibility and short-term outcome of transverse skin crease incision and vertical midline incision for the resection of right sided colonic cancer.  

Materials and methods: An observational study at CMCH and a private hospital in Chittagong compared transverse (Group A) and vertical midline (Group B) incisions in 66 right hemicolectomy patients. Pain (VAS) operation duration, recovery (Oral intake, bowel function, discharge) and oncological outcomes (Resection margins) were assessed on postoperative days 1, 8, and 30.  

Results: Group A (Transverse incisions) had shorter operation times (120 vs. 140 minutes, p<0.001) faster recovery, less pain (Days 1, 4-7) and shorter hospital stays (6 vs. 12 days, p<0.001) compared to Group B, with no significant difference in complications or wound events (p>0.05).  

Conclusion: Transverse skin crease incisions reduce operative time, postoperative pain and hospital stays compared to vertical midline incisions, while maintaining comparable tumor clearance and safety, making them a viable and effective surgical approach for right-sided colonic cancer.

JCMCTA 2026 ; 37 (1) : 176-182