The use of drains in elective surgery for colorectal cancer: always, never or selectively?

Indications for the use of drains of the peritoneal and pelvic cavity following elective surgery for colorectal cancer provide a source of continuing controversy. Analysis of the experimental and clinical studies indicates that routine drainage in needless with standard elective surgery for colon cancer. Some risk factors justify the selective use of drains when there is an increased risk of postoperative morbidity. In contrast, surgery for rectal cancer is associated with high risk of wound site complications and usually requires drainage with or without the filling of a pelvic "dead space" with well-vascularized soft tissues.