Minimally invasive complete mesocolic excision (CME) shows improved outcomes in right-sided colon cancer surgery.

• 6.09 more lymph nodes retrieved with CME (p < 0.001)
• Anastomotic leakage is lower with CME (0.87% vs. 1.86%, RR: 0.49)
• 3-year overall survival improves with CME (85.4% vs. 82.2%)

CME offers better oncological results and safety in short-term outcomes, suggesting a shift in surgical practice for this patient group.

• Operative time is longer for CME (+67.84 minutes), but no difference in major complications or blood loss.