['This study evaluated the incidence and risk factors for prolonged ileus in patients undergoing elective colon resection.', 'Retrospective data were obtained in patients undergoing open colectomy with or without epidural analgesia and laparoscopic colectomy at a university-affiliated Veterans hospital. The incidence and risk factors of prolonged ileus as defined by no bowel movement before postoperative day 7 or placement of a nasogastric tube because of vomiting or abdominal distension were analyzed.', 'Incidence of prolonged ileus was 15.2%, 22.4%, and 16.7% in epidural (92 patients), nonepidural (107 patients), and laparoscopic colectomy (48 patients), respectively (P = .39). Higher age, American Society of Anesthesiologists scores, and number of comorbidities, and lower postoperative potassium level were associated with the development of prolonged ileus.'] Do epidural analgesia and laparoscopic technique reduce incidence of prolonged ileus in elective colon resections?