Josefin Petersson: Encouraging keyhole surgery for colorectal cancer
Different surgical methods exist for colon and rectal cancer. Josefin Petersson’s research highlights the importance of embracing keyhole surgery as a more widespread treatment approach.
JOSEFIN PETERSSON
Dissertation Defense: 19 January 2024 (click for details)
Doctoral Thesis: lncidence of Colorectal Cancer and Comparisons of Outcomes after Minimally Invasive and Open Surgery
Research Area: Surgery
Sahlgrenska Academy, The Institute of Clinical Sciences
Colorectal cancer ranks as the third most prevalent cancer in the Western world. While on a decline overall, the disease has shown an increase in individuals under the age of 50 in some western countries.
Surgery stands as the primary curative approach. Conventionally, open surgery reigned until the 1990s when keyhole surgery, termed minimally invasive surgery, was introduced. This technique has shown clear short-term advantages, like speedier recovery, and some studies have suggested enhanced short-term survival.
However, uncertainties remain regarding whether this method reduces long-term hospitalization risks or additional surgeries.
An issue for all ages
Josefin Petersson’s thesis delves into Sweden’s colorectal cancer prevalence and compares minimally invasive and open surgery outcomes.
What are your key findings and their potential benefits?
“We’ve seen a decline in colorectal cancer cases in Sweden overall, but there’s a rise among under-50s. Raising awareness is crucial, as colorectal cancer isn’t confined to the elderly,” emphasizes Petersson, a colorectal surgeon at Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Australia.
“Safe on a cancer front”
What conclusions did your surgical technique comparisons give?
“Routine use of minimally invasive surgery for colorectal cancer is safe, offering several short-term benefits. Healthcare should strive for a higher proportion of minimally invasive surgery for this form of cancer. Furthermore, this shift may not impact long-term hospital needs or additional surgeries due to issues like intestinal obstruction or hernias.”
Patient-centric research
What aspects of your PhD project were rewarding?
“The patient connection is a highlight. Applying research insights in daily patient care is extremely rewarding,” says Josefin Petersson. “And being part of SSORG‘s remarkable research group added joy. Discussions with inspiring colleagues and robust support made the research journey truly enjoyable.”
Text: Jakob Lundberg