Transanal-total mesorectal excision in cadaveric model

Abstract

Cadaveric models offer a realistic surgical procedure simulation platform in the operating theatre, which facilitate the learning of new techniques without inherent risks for the patient. The objective of this study is to report our experience using the TaTME (transanal-total mesorectal excision) approach in a cadaveric model in the Clinical Simulation Department of the Tecnológico de Monterrey School of Medicine, at the Monterrey Campus. A total of 5 laparoscopic abdominal and TaTME procedures were conducted simultaneously using the GelPOINT Path platform® (Applied Medical, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, USA). The average time for the abdominal procedure was 71min, while the transanal procedure lasted 74min. In 4 of the cadavers, a total mesorectal excision was achieved, with a near total mesorectal excision in the remaining cadaver. A conventional transabdominal procedure had to be conducted on one of the cadavers due to technical difficulties experienced in tissue manipulation. We conclude that the cadaveric model offers a suitable platform for learning new surgical techniques, with high a degree of similarity to the surgical procedures performed on living patients. A key factor is the tissue consistency of the cadaver for adequate manipulation.