Surgical and pathomorphological results of total mesorectumectomy by using waterjet dissection technique in patients with rectal cancer

Abstract

Background. The paper presents our own experience of using a waterjet dissector ERBEJET2® in the course of surgical interventions for colorectal cancer. This experience is unique for Russia. Materials and methods. Waterjet dissection method associated with total mesorectumectomy was used by us in 20 patients suffering from rectal cancer. An average age of patients was 59.2 ± 13.9 years. In all the patients surgeries were performed for adenogenic colorectal cancer, morphologically verified at the preoperative stage. Resected preparations were studied on morphological level. For comparison, two control groups of 20 patients were selected, in which the rectum mobilization was performed by using monopolar coagulator and harmonic scalpel. The studied groups were matched by gender, age, location and the tumor extent. All the surgeries were performed by one surgical team. Results. Results of the study demonstrated advantages of waterjet dissection when performing total mesorectumectomy due to a minimum depth of tissue damage on the lateral margin of resection. Conclusion. Waterjet dissectors have taken their place in the extensive list of tools used when performing surgical interventions for colorectal cancer, that allows to expect an improvement of functional and oncological results of the surgical treatment.