The new approach to the rectal cancer: 'down-to-up' double endolaparoscopic pelvic access. Preliminary evaluation of outcomes

Updates Surg. 2015 Sep;67(3):293-9. doi: 10.1007/s13304-015-0306-3. Epub 2015 Jun 25.

Abstract

Laparoscopic access in low anterior rectal resection is widely adopted, performing an 'up-to-down' dissection. The aim of this study is to present and analyze the outcomes of a novel surgical 'down-to-up' total mesorectal excision technique that could obviate to the well-known issues of the standard treatment. 18 suitable patients underwent double endolaparoscopic pelvic access (DEPA) 'down-to-up' technique. DEPA TME was completed in all patients, with intact mesorectum. Mean operative time was 365 min (range 280-510 min). The morbidity rate was 22%, including three radiologically detected leakage (grade A) and one pelvic abscess, requiring only a conservative management. Mortality rate at 30 and 90 days was 0%. Resection margins were negative in all patients. A median of 11 nodes (range 5-19) was retrieved per specimen. Mean length of hospital stay was 9 days (range 7-19 days). Patients were followed for an average of 14 months (range 0-42 months), with no recurrence. Despite exiguous patient's sample in this pilot study, transanal endoscopic TME with laparoscopic assistance seems to be feasible and safe, and is a promising alternative to open and laparoscopic TME. However, a conspicuous functional and oncologic long-term evaluation is required, before the widespread adoption could be recommended.

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma / surgery*
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Anal Canal / surgery*
  • Digestive System Surgical Procedures / adverse effects
  • Digestive System Surgical Procedures / methods
  • Fecal Incontinence / etiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Laparoscopy / adverse effects
  • Laparoscopy / methods*
  • Length of Stay
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Operative Time
  • Pilot Projects
  • Rectal Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Treatment Outcome