Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision Research Articles

Author response to: Transanal total mesorectal excision and low anterior resection syndrome.

Author response to: Transanal total mesorectal excision and low anterior resection syndrome.

Side-to-side choledochoduodenostomy for common bile duct stones.

The management of lower rectal cancers is a therapeutic challenge both from the oncological and functional viewpoints. The aim of this study is to assess the oncological results and postoperative morbidity after transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) for low rectal cancer.In this monocentric retrospective study, we compared the quality of carcinologic resection and the morbidity-mortality between a group of 20 patients undergoing TaTME and 21 patients treated by abdomino-perineal resection (APR) between 2016 to 2019.More patients had a positive circumferential resection margin (CRM) (≤ 1 mm) in the APR group (47.6% vs. 5%; P < 0.0036). The difference in the rates of grades I-II and III-IV complications (Clavien-Dindo classification) between the two groups was not statistically significant (50% vs. 57.1% and 5% vs. 9.5% in TaTME and APR, respectively; P = 0.7579, P = 1.00). The median follow-up was longer in the TaTME group (20 months vs. 11 months; P = 0.58). The local recurrence rate did not differ between the two groups (5% vs. 4.8%; P = 1.00)TaTME provides a reliable total mesorectal resection with an acceptable CRM. However, like any new technique, it requires experience and the learning curve is long.

How to perform an anastomosis following a low anterior resection by transanal total mesorectal excision surgery: from top to bottom techniques.

The aim was to describe the range of possibilities and our group's clinical outcomes when performing different types of anastomosis during transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME). A retrospective analysis was performed based on four taTME series from 2016 to 2021. Inclusion criteria were patients with rectal cancer in whom a sphincter-saving low anterior resection by taTME was performed. Four different techniques were employed for the anastomosis construction: (A) abdominal view, (B) transanal view, (C) hand-sewn coloanal anastomosis and (D) pull-through. Intra-operative and postoperative data were collected and compared. A total of 161 patients were included. Tumour height was lower in groups C and D (4 [3-5] vs. 7 [6-8] group A vs. 6 [5-7] group B, P=0.000), requiring a hand-sewn anastomosis. A transanal extraction of the specimen was more commonly performed in groups C and D (over 60% vs. 30% in groups A and B, P=0.000). The rate of temporary stoma was similar between groups A, B and C (ranging from 84% to 98%) but was significantly lower in group D (P=0.000). The overall rate of complications was similar between groups; however, group D had longer length of stay (15days vs. 5-6 in groups A, B and C, P=0.026). Every type of anastomosis construction after a taTME procedure seems to be safe and feasible and should be chosen based on surgeon's experience, tumour height and the length of the rectal cuff after the rectal transection. Colorectal surgeons should be familiar with these techniques in order to choose the one that benefits each patient the most.

The "terminal line": a novel sign for the identification of distal mesorectum end during TME for rectal cancer.

BackgroundAlthough the clinical importance of complete, intact total mesorectal excision (TME) is the widely accepted standard for decreasing local recurrence of rectal cancer, the residual mesorectum still represents a significant component of resection margin involvement. This study aimed to use a visible intraoperative sign to detect the distal mesorectal end to ensure complete inclusion of the mesorectum and avoid unnecessary over-dissection.MethodsThe distal mesorectum end was investigated retrospectively through a review of 124 operative videos at the Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University (Fujian, China) and Cleveland Clinic (Ohio, USA) by two independent surgeons who were blinded to each other. Furthermore, 28 cadavers and 44 post-operative specimens were prospectively examined by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and Masson's staining to validate and confirm the findings of the retrospective part. Univariate and multivariate analyses were carried out to detect the independent factors that can affect the visualization of the distal mesorectal end.ResultsThe terminal line (TL) is the distal mesorectal end of the transabdominal and transanal TME (taTME) and appears as a remarkable pearly white fascial structure extending posteriorly from 2 to 10 o'clock. Histopathological examination revealed that the fascia propria of the rectum merges with the presacral fascia at the TL, beyond which the mesorectum ends, with no further downward extension. In the retrospective observation, the TL was seen in 56.6% of transabdominal TME and 56.0% of taTME operations. Surgical approach and tumor distance from the anal verge were the independent variables that directly influenced the detection of the TL (P = 0.03 and P = 0.01).ConclusionThe TL is a visible sign where the transabdominal TME should end and the taTME should begin. Recognition of the mesorectal end may impact the certainty of complete mesorectum inclusion. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm the preliminary findings.

Transanal total mesorectal excision combined with intersphincteric resection has similar long-term oncological outcomes to laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection in low rectal cancer: a propensity score-matched cohort study.

BackgroundTransanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) or intersphincteric resection (ISR) has recently proven to be a valid and safe surgical procedure for low rectal cancer. However, studies focusing on the combination of these two technologies are limited. This study aimed to evaluate perioperative results, long-term oncologic outcomes, and anorectal functions of patients with low rectal cancer undergoing taTME combined with ISR, by comparing with those of patients undergoing laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection (laAPR).MethodsAfter 1:1 propensity score matching, 200 patients with low rectal cancer who underwent laAPR (n = 100) or taTME combined with ISR (n = 100) between September 2013 and November 2019 were included. Patient demographics, clinicopathological characteristics, oncological outcomes, and anal functional results were analysed.ResultsPatients in the taTME-combined-with-ISR group had less intraoperative blood loss (79.6 ± 72.6 vs 107.3 ± 65.1 mL, P = 0.005) and a lower rate of post-operative complications (22.0% vs 44.0%, P < 0.001) than those in the laAPR group. The overall local recurrence rates were 7.0% in both groups within 3 years after surgery. The 3-year disease-free survival rates were 86.3% in the taTME-combined-with-ISR group and 75.1% in the laAPR group (P = 0.056), while the 3-year overall survival rates were 96.7% and 94.2%, respectively (P = 0.319). There were 39 patients (45.3%) in the taTME-combined-with-ISR group who developed major low anterior resection syndrome, whereas 61 patients (70.9%) had good post-operative anal function (Wexner incontinence score ≤ 10).ConclusionWe found similar long-term oncological outcomes for patients with low rectal cancer undergoing laAPR and those undergoing taTME combined with ISR. Patients receiving taTME combined with ISR had acceptable post-operative anorectal function.

Standardized Procedure of Transperineal Minimally Invasive Abdominoperineal Resection for Low Rectal Cancer.

Although transperineal minimally invasive abdominoperineal resection (tp-APR) based on the concept of transanal total mesorectal excision has recently been used for rectal cancer, the operative procedure has not been standardized to date due to its technical difficulty. The tp-APR procedure used by the authors for a male patient with low rectal cancer is presented in this video.

Transanal versus laparoscopic total mesorectal excision: a comparative study of long-term oncological outcomes.

Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) is the most recent approach developed to improve pelvic dissection in surgery for mid and low rectal tumors. There are still inconsistencies regarding the technique's oncological results. The aim of this study was to analyze clinical and oncological outcomes of the learning curve of TaTME in comparison to laparoscopic TME (lapTME). Rectal cancer patients who had TaTME and lapTME in two Portuguese colorectal units between March 2016 and December 2018 were eligible. Primary endpoints were 5-year overall survival, disease-free survival, and local recurrence. Secondary endpoints were clinical and pathological outcomes. Forty-four patients underwent TaTME (29 men) and 39 lapTME (27 men) with a median age of 69 and 66 (p = 0.093), respectively. No differences were observed concerning baseline characteristics, emphasizing their comparability. In the TaTME group, there were more hand-sewn anastomosis (0 lapTME versus 7 TaTME, p = 0.018) with significantly less distance to the dentate line (40mm lapTME versus 20mm TaTME, p = 0.005) and significantly more loop ileostomies performed (28 lapTME versus 41 TaTME, p = 0.001). There were no differences in post-operative mortality, morbidity, readmissions, and stoma closure. Groups were similar in relation to specimen quality, margins, and resectability; however, TaTME had a significantly higher node yield (14 lapTME versus 20 TaTME, p = 0.002). Finally, no disparities were noted in oncological outcomes, namely local and distant recurrence, 5-year overall survival, and disease-free survival. Even with the disadvantage of the learning curve of a new technique, TaTME appears to be comparable to lapTME, with similar long-term oncological outcomes. It has, however, a demanding learning curve, significant risk for morbidity and should be used only for selected patients.

Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery Versus Total Mesorectal Excision in ypT0-1 Rectal Cancer After Preoperative Radiochemotherapy: Postoperative Morbidity, Functional Results, and Long-term Oncologic Outcome.

In patients with locally advanced extraperitoneal rectal cancer, a multidisciplinary approach represents the standard treatment. However, considering the favorable prognosis in patients with major or complete response, radical surgery might represent overtreatment. This study aimed to evaluate postoperative short-term morbidity, functional outcome, and oncologic long-term outcome in patients with rectal cancer treated with local excision by transanal endoscopic microsurgery or radical surgery and to determine who achieved a complete or major pathological response (ypT0-1) after neoadjuvant treatment. This was a retrospective study. The study was conducted at a single center. Patients who had received neoadjuvant treatment by local excision with a major or complete pathological response at histological examination (transanal endoscopic microsurgery group) were compared to patients treated by radical surgery with the same pathological response (total mesorectal excision group). The interventions included local excision by transanal endoscopic microsurgery and radical surgery with total mesorectal excision. Postoperative short-term morbidity, functional outcome 1 year after surgery, and oncologic long-term outcome were measured. Ninety-three patients were included in the study (35 in the transanal endoscopic microsurgery group and 58 in the mesorectal excision group). In the total mesorectal excision group, a sphincter-saving approach was possible in 89.7% (vs 100%; p = 0.049); a protective temporary stoma was necessary in 74.1% of radical procedures (vs 0%; p < 0.001), and 13.8% of these became permanent. Short-term postoperative morbidity was lower after local excision (14.3% vs 46.6%; p = 0.002). One year after surgery, the transanal endoscopic microsurgery group recorded better evacuation and continence function than the total mesorectal excision group. Oncologic outcome was similar between the groups. This study had a retrospective design. If a major or complete pathological response occurs after neoadjuvant treatment, an organ-sparing approach by local excision seems to offer the same oncologic results as radical surgery, but it has a better postoperative morbidity rate and better functional results. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B901 .Microcirugía endoscópica transanal versus escisión total del mesorrecto en cáncer de recto ypT0-1 después de radioquimioterapia preoperatoria: morbilidad posoperatoria, resultados funcionales y resultado oncológico a largo plazo. En pacientes con cáncer rectal extraperitoneal localmente avanzado, un abordaje multidisciplinario con radioquimioterapia preoperatoria y cirugía con escisión total del mesorrecto representa el tratamiento estándar. En pacientes que obtienen una respuesta mayor o completa, la cirugía radical puede representar un sobretratamiento, considerando el pronóstico favorable de estos casos. Evaluar la morbilidad posoperatoria a corto plazo, el resultado funcional y el resultado oncológico a largo plazo en pacientes con cáncer de recto tratados con escisión local mediante microcirugía endoscópica transanal o mediante cirugía radical y que obtuvieron una respuesta patológica completa o mayor (ypT0-1) después del tratamiento neoadyuvante. Este fue un estudio retrospectivo. El estudio se realizó en un solo centro. El estudio se realizó en un solo centro. Se comparó a los pacientes tratados, tras tratamiento neoadyuvante (1996-2016), mediante escisión local con respuesta patológica mayor o completa al examen histológico (grupo de microcirugía endoscópica transanal), con los pacientes tratados mediante cirugía radical con la misma respuesta patológica (grupo de escisión mesorrectal total). Extirpación local mediante microcirugía endoscópica transanal y cirugía radical con escisión mesorrectal total. Morbilidad posoperatoria a corto plazo, resultado funcional a un año después de la cirugía (evaluado con una puntuación de evacuación y continencia) y resultado oncológico a largo plazo. Las limitaciones de este estudio incluyen su diseño retrospectivo. Si se produce una respuesta patológica mayor o completa después del tratamiento neoadyuvante, un abordaje con preservación de órganos mediante escisión local parece ofrecer los mismos resultados oncológicos que la cirugía radical, pero tiene una menor tasa de morbilidad postoperatoria y mejores resultados funcionales un año después de la cirugía. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B901 . (Traducción-Dr. Felipe Bellolio ).

Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision Versus Anterior Total Mesorectal Excision for Rectal Cancer: A Propensity Score Matched, Population-Based Study in Catalonia, Spain.

The clinical value of transanal total mesorectal excision is debated. This study aimed to compare short- and medium-term effects of transanal versus anterior total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer. This was a multicenter retrospective cohort study. The study included all Catalonian public hospitals. All patients receiving transanal or anterior total mesorectal excision (open or laparoscopic) for nonmetastatic primary rectal cancer in 2015 to 2016 were included. Data on vital status were collected to March 2019. Between-group differences were minimized by applying propensity score matching to baseline patient characteristics. Competing risk models were used to assess systemic and local recurrence along with death at 2 years, and multivariable Cox regression was used to assess 2-year disease-free survival. Results are expressed with their 95% CIs. The final subsample was 537 patients receiving total mesorectal excision (transanal approach: n = 145; anterior approach: n = 392). Median follow-up was 39.2 months (interquartile range, 33.0-45.8). Accounting for death as a competing event, there was no association between transanal total mesorectal excision and local recurrence (matched subhazard ratio 1.28, 95% CI 0.55-2.96). There were no statistical differences in the comparative rate of local recurrence (transanal: 1.77 per 100 person-years, 95% CI 0.76-3.34; anterior: 1.37 per 100 person-years, 95% CI 0.8-2.15) or mortality (transanal: 3.98 per 100 person-years, 95% CI 2.36-6.16; anterior: 2.99 per 100 person-years, 95% CI 2.1-4.07). Groups presented similar 2-year cumulative incidence of local recurrence (4.83% versus 3.57%) and disease-free survival (HR, 1.33; 95% CI 0.92-1.92). We used data only from the public system, the study is retrospective, and data on individual surgeons are not reported. These population-based results support the use of either the transanal, open, or laparoscopic approach for rectal cancer in Catalonia. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B744.ESCISIÓN MESORRECTAL TOTAL TRANSANAL VERSUS ESCISIÓN MESORRECTAL TOTAL ANTERIOR PARA EL CÁNCER DE RECTO: UN ESTUDIO POBLACIONAL CON EMPAREJAMIENTO DE PUNTAJE DE PROPENSIÓN EN CATALUÑA, ESPAÑA. Se debate el valor clínico de la escisión mesorrectal total transanal. Comparar los efectos a corto y mediano plazo de la escisión mesorrectal total transanal versus anterior para el cáncer de recto. Este fue un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo multicéntrico. El estudio incluyó a todos los hospitales públicos de Cataluña. Todos los pacientes no metastásicos que recibieron escisión mesorrectal total anterior o transanal (abierta o laparoscópica) por cáncer de recto primario en 2015-16. Los datos sobre el estado vital se recopilaron hasta marzo de 2019. Las diferencias entre los grupos se minimizaron aplicando el emparejamiento de puntajes de propensión a las características iniciales del paciente. Se utilizaron modelos de riesgo competitivo para evaluar la recurrencia sistémica y local junto con la muerte a los dos años, y la regresión de Cox multivariable para evaluar la supervivencia libre de enfermedad a dos años. Los resultados se expresan con sus intervalos de confianza del 95%. La submuestra final fue de 537 pacientes que recibieron escisión mesorrectal total (abordaje transanal: n = 145; abordaje anterior: n = 392). La mediana de seguimiento fue de 39,2 meses (rango intercuartílico 33,0-45,8). Teniendo en cuenta la muerte como un evento competitivo, no hubo asociación entre la escisión mesorrectal total transanal y la recurrencia local (cociente de subriesgo apareado 1,28, 0,55-2,96). No hubo diferencias estadísticas en la tasa comparativa de recurrencia local (transanal: 1,77 por 100 personas-año, 0,76-3,34; anterior: 1,37 por 100 personas-año, 0,8-2,15) o mortalidad (transanal: 3,98 por 100 personas-año, 2,36-6,16; anterior: 2,99 por 100 personas-año, 2,1-4,07). Los grupos presentaron una incidencia acumulada de dos años similar de recidiva local (4,83% frente a 3,57%, respectivamente) y supervivencia libre de enfermedad (índice de riesgo 1,33, 0,92-1,92). Utilizamos datos solo del sistema público, el estudio es retrospectivo y no se informan datos sobre cirujanos individuales. Estos resultados poblacionales apoyan el uso del abordaje transanal, abierto o laparoscópico para el cáncer de recto en Cataluña. Consulte. Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B744. (Traducción- Dr. Francisco M. Abarca-Rendon).

Anastomosis-Related Complications After Stapled Anastomosis With Reinforced Sutures in Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision for Low Rectal Cancer: A Retrospective Single-Center Study.

The International Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision Registry group showed that transanal total mesorectal excision included clinical issues regarding anastomosis-related complications. This study evaluated anastomotic complications in patients whose anastomoses were created with the stapler plus reinforced sutures procedure after transanal total mesorectal excision for low rectal cancer. This was a retrospective single-center study. The study was conducted at the National Cancer Center Hospital East, Japan. Between June 2016 and December 2019, 150 patients underwent transanal total mesorectal excision for low rectal cancer. Stapled anastomosis was performed for 55 patients, and coloanal handsewn anastomosis was performed for 95 patients. Blood perfusion of the colon was routinely evaluated with intraoperative indocyanine green fluorescence angiography. All patients who underwent stapled anastomosis received additional handsewn sutures on all rounds of the stapled line. Patients who underwent intersphincteric resection were excluded. The anastomosis-related complications were compared between the groups. Early anastomotic leakage was found in one (1.8%) and eight (8.4%) patients in the stapled group and handsewn group. Overall anastomosis-related complications, pelvic abscess, and anastomotic stenosis were significantly less frequent in the stapled group (p < 0.001, p < 0.048, and p < 0.032). Incomplete donuts after the stapled anastomosis were observed in 9 patients (16.4%); however, we reinforced all around the stapled line in these patients, and this reduced the subsequent occurrence of anastomotic leakage. First, this was a retrospective single-center study that was not randomized or controlled. Second, there were chronological differences regarding the anastomotic method between the two groups. Third, our study included a relatively small number of patients who received preoperative chemoradiotherapy. Stapled anastomosis with reinforced handsewn sutures resulted in fewer anastomosis-related complications than did coloanal handsewn anastomosis after transanal total mesorectal excision for low rectal cancer; thus, the former may be superior and should be the preferred method, when technically possible. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B749.COMPLICACIONES RELACIONADAS CON LAS ANASTOMOSIS ENGRAMPADAS Y REFORZADAS CON SUTURAS EN LA EXCISIÓN TOTAL DEL MESORRECTO POR VÍA TRANSANAL EN CASOS DE CÁNCER DE RECTO BAJO: ESTUDIO RETROSPECTIVO UNICÉNTRICO. El grupo del Registro Internacional de Excisión Total del Mesorrecto por vía Transanal mostró que la excisión total mesorrectal transanal incluía problemas clínicos relacionados a las complicaciones involucradas con la anastomosis. Se evaluaron las complicaciones anastomóticas en pacientes cuyas anastomosis se realizaron con engrampadora reforzada de suturas después de la excisión total de l mesorrecto por vía transanal en casos de cáncer de recto bajo. Estudio retrospectivo unicéntrico. El Hospital del Centro Nacional del Cáncer del Este, Japón. Entre junio de 2016 y diciembre de 2019, 150 pacientes se sometieron a excisión total del mesorrecto por vía transanal en casos de cáncer de recto bajo. Se realizó anastomosis con engrampadora en 55 y anastomosis coloanal suturada a mano en 95 pacientes. La perfusión tisular sanguínea del colon operado se evaluó de forma rutinaria con angiografía de fluorescencia con verde de indocianina intraoperatoria. Todos los pacientes que se sometieron a anastomosis con grapas recibieron suturas realizadas a mano adicionales sobre la totalidad de la línea de grapas. Se excluyeron los pacientes sometidos a resección interesfintérica. Las complicaciones relacionadas con la anastomosis se compararon entre los grupos. Se encontró fuga anastomótica temprana en 1 (1.8%) y 8 (8.4%) pacientes en el grupo de engrampado y en el grupo suturado a mano, respectivamente. En general, las complicaciones relacionadas con la anastomosis, el absceso pélvico y la estenosis anastomótica fueron significativamente menos frecuentes en el grupo con grapas (p < 0.001, p < 0.048, p < 0.032, respectivamente). Se observaron donas incompletas después de la anastomosis grapada en 9 pacientes (16,4%); sin embargo, reforzamos todo alrededor de la línea de grapas en estos pacientes, y esto redujo la aparición posterior de fugas anastomóticas. Inicialmente, este fue un estudio retrospectivo de un solo centro que no fue aleatorizado ni controlado. En segundo lugar, hubo diferencias cronológicas con respecto al método anastomótico entre los dos grupos. En tercer lugar, nuestro estudio incluyó un número relativamente pequeño de pacientes que recibieron quimiorradioterapia preoperatoria. La anastomosis engrapada reforzada con suturas realizadas a mano dio como resultado menos complicaciones relacionadas con la anastomosis que la anastomosis coloanal suturada a mano después de la excisión total del mesorrecto por vía transanal en casos de cáncer de recto bajo; por tanto, el primero puede ser superior y debería ser el método preferido, cuando sea técnicamente posible. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B749. (Traducción-Dr. Xavier Delgadillo).

Local Recurrence After Pure NOTES Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision for Early Rectal Cancer

Local Recurrence After Pure NOTES Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision for Early Rectal Cancer

Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) with delayed coloanal anastomosis versusTaTME with immediate coloanal anastomosis and temporary diversion in middle and low rectal cancer.

Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) avoids the difficulty of laparoscopic dissection of the lower part of the rectum. The need for stoma is associated with many stoma-related complications. The objective was to compare TaTME with immediate coloanal anastomosis and protective ileostomy (TaTME-IA) versus Turnbull-Cutait delayed coloanal anastomosis (TaTME-TC). A retrospective cohort study included patients with low rectal cancer at least 1 cm above the top of the anal sphincter. Patients had either TaTME-IA or TaTME-TC. Primary outcome measures were anastomotic and stoma-related complications. Secondary outcomes included rate of permanent stomas, local recurrence, continence, and quality of life (QOL). TaTME-IA was done in 25 patients versus 20 who had TaTME-TC. TaTME-IA had significantly longer mean operative time (p = 0.04) and shorter length of stay (LOS) (4.5 vs. 11.4 days; p = 0.0001) compared to TaTME-TC. Anastomotic leak was reported in two patients of TaTME-IA versus one patient of TaTME-TC (p = 0.77). Anastomotic stenosis was reported in one patient in each group. No significant difference between groups as regard continence, local recurrence, and QOL. TaTME-TC is a safe option that can be offered for patients with low rectal cancer who refuse or are not amenable to a temporary stoma. Anastomotic complications were similar in both groups. LOS was much longer in TaTME-TC, however, it avoids stoma complications. Both groups had similar functional oncologic outcomes and QOL.

Transanal total mesorectal excision for abdominoperineal resection is associated with poor oncological outcomes in rectal cancer patients: A word of caution from a multicentric Canadian cohort study.

The main objective of this study was to compare the oncological outcomes of patients undergoing abdominoperineal resection (APR) versus low anterior resection (LAR) through a transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) approach. A total of 360 adult patients with a diagnosis of rectal cancer were enrolled at participating centres from the Canadian taTME Expert Collaboration. Forty-three patients received taTME-APR and received 317 taTME-LAR. Demographic, operative, pathological and follow-up data were collected and merged into a single database. Results are presented as hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval. All analyses were performed in the R environment (v.3.6). The proportion of patients with a positive circumferential radial margin status was higher in the taTME-APR group than the taTME-LAR group (21% vs. 9%, p=0.001). Complete TME was achieved in 91% of those undergoing APR compared with 96% of those undergoing LAR (p=0.25). APR was associated with a greater rate of local recurrence relative to LAR, although it was not significant [crude HR=3.53 (95% CI 0.92-13.53)]. Circumferential margin positivity was significantly associated with a higher rate of systemic recurrence [crude HR=3.59 (95% CI 1.38-9.3)]. Our results demonstrate inferior outcomes in those undergoing taTME-APR compared with taTME-LAR. The use of this technique for this particular indication needs to be carefully considered.

S184: preoperative sarcopenia is associated with worse short-term outcomes following transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) for rectal cancer.

Malnutrition and deconditioning impact postoperative morbidity and mortality. Computed tomography (CT) body composition variables are used as markers of nutritional status and sarcopenia. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of sarcopenia, using CT variables, on postoperative outcomes following transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) for rectal cancer. This was an institutional retrospective cohort analysis of consecutive rectal cancer patients who underwent TaTME between April 2014 and May 2020. Psoas muscle index (PMI) was calculated from diagnostic CT scans. Based on previous studies, patients in the lowest PMI tertile by gender were considered sarcopenic. Fisher's exact and Mann-Whitney U test were used to compare categorical and continuous variables, respectively. Readmission rates and postoperative complications were compared between groups. Backward stepwise logistic regression was used to determine the association between sarcopenia and 30-day postoperative complications. 85 patients were analyzed, of which 63% were male, with a median age of 59 (IQR: 51-65), and median BMI of 28 (IQR: 24-32). Of the entire cohort, 34% (n = 29) were sarcopenic (median PMI 5.39 IQR: 4.49-6.71). No significant difference in baseline characteristics between sarcopenic and nonsarcopenic patients were observed. 55% of sarcopenic patients experienced a complication within 30 days compared to 24% of nonsarcopenic patients (p = 0.01). 41% of sarcopenic patients required hospital readmission within 30 days compared to 17% of their nonsarcopenic counterparts (p = 0.014). Sarcopenic patients also experienced significantly higher rates of post-operative small bowel obstruction (10% vs. 0%, p = 0.04). Multivariable analyses identified that sarcopenic patients have a fourfold increase in odds of experiencing a 30-day postoperative complication (OR: 4.44, 95%CI: 1.6-12.4, p < 0.05) after adjusting for gender. Preoperative sarcopenia is associated with increased 30-day postoperative complications following TaTME for rectal cancer. Postoperative complications can have serious oncologic implications by delaying adjuvant chemotherapy. Therefore, preoperative recognition of sarcopenia prior to undergoing TaTME for rectal cancer may provide an opportunity for early intervention with prehabilitation programs.

Development of a formative feedback tool for transanal total mesorectal excision.

Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) is a novel procedure in the treatment of rectal cancer. Current training models for TaTME suggest a period of proctored cases, but no structured feedback tool exists to guide operators during the learning phase. The objective of this study therefore was to develop a formative feedback tool for the critical steps of the transanal portion of TaTME. A two-round Delphi study by TaTME experts was conducted to determine the items to be included in the formative feedback tool. Participants rated each step from a prepared list using a Likert scale from 1 (Not relevant) to 5 (Very relevant) with the option to suggest additional steps. Responses to the first round were presented in the second round, where participants rated the revised list of steps. Consensus was defined as > 80% of participants rating the step as 4 or 5 (out of 5). Items were combined when appropriate to avoid redundancy. Rating anchors describing performance (on a 5-point scale) were then developed for each step. The final tool was recirculated and participants rated the finished product on its feasibility and usefulness. Twenty-six TaTME experts were contacted for participation. Fifteen experts (58%) participated in the first round of the study, and eleven (42%) participated in the second round. The majority (14, 93%) had completed fellowship training in colorectal surgery. The first round of the Delphi study contained 34 items, and 32 items met inclusion criteria after the second round. Redundant items were combined into 15 items that comprised the final tool. Out of eight respondents to the feasibility survey, all believed the feedback tool enhances the feedback of learners and would use it for training purposes if available. This work describes the development of a novel consensus-based formative feedback tool specific to TaTME.

Clinical Status and Future Prospects of Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision.

Low rectal cancer has always posed surgical challenges to gastrointestinal surgeons. Transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) is a novel approach to radical resection for low rectal cancer. Compared with conventional laparoscopic TME (laTME), taTME is relevant to the benefits of better vision of the mesorectal plane, feasibility of operating in a narrow pelvis, and exact definition of distal resection margin, which may lead to a higher possibility of free circumferential resection margin, better quality of TME specimen, and lower conversion rate. Although there are concerns about its long-term oncological outcomes and complex learning curve, taTME is a promising alternative for rectal cancer. In this review, we discuss the application status and prospects of taTME.

Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision for Malignant Rectal Lesion: A Prospective Cohort Study

AIMS: The main outcome of this study was to use the transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) technique for rectal cancer resection and to assess as a primary endpoint the short-term oncological outcome; in terms of circumferential resection margin, longitudinal resection margins (proximally and distally), and lymph nodes (LN) retrieval, while secondary endpoints were operative time, estimated blood loss, length of hospital stay, cost per case, and overall complication rate. METHODS: This was a prospective cohort study. Forty patients were included and subjected to TaTME from May 2018 to January 2020 and patients were followed up for a period of 6 months. RESULTS: Primary endpoint: Depending on the post-operative specimen pathological assessment; circumferential resection margin (CRM) was free in all patients, proximal resection margins had a mean 14.37 2.87 cm, distal resection margins had a mean 2.08 ± 0.4 cm and LNs retrieval had a mean 13.27 ± 5.9, and number of positive LNs had a mean 2.40 ± 3.77. Secondary endpoints: Mean total operative time (from induction of anesthesia till skin closure) was 179.10, estimated blood loss (using gauze visual analog plus what was obtained in the OR suction device) was 133.67 66.59 ml, the length of hospital stay (admission till discharge) was 5.27 ± 1.08 days, cost per case had a mean (in 1000 USD) 2.95 ± 0.12, and overall complication rate was 10%. CONCLUSION: TaTME represents a promising complementary technique to laparoscopic TME in the step of low rectal dissection.

Robotic vs. TaTME Rectal Surgery (ROTA STUDY) Matched Cohort Trial for Mid to Low Rectal Cancer Surgery Evaluation Trial in the Hands of an Experienced Surgeon.

Background:Recent novel surgical techniques for resection of low rectal cancer have been introduced and these approaches have the potential to overcome anatomical limitations like obesity, narrow male pelvis and bulky and low tumours. Two of these procedures are robotic low anterior resection (RLAR) and transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME).Both approaches have distinct advantages and limitations. There has been no head to head trial comparing RLAR and TaTME for patients with mid to low rectal cancer undergoing surgery by experienced surgeons. Previous studies looking at the oncological outcomes of either TaTME or robotic TME included many centres where the surgeons were on a learning curve and hence the true oncological outcomes and clinical benefits can not be measured accurately.Method:The inclusion criteria include experienced surgeons defined as minimum of 60 prior procedures with RLAR or TaTME. Successful oncological and clinical outcomes are defined as circumferential resection margin (CRM) ≥1 mm with limited postoperative morbidity (absence of Clavien-Dindo grade III–IV complications within 30 days after surgery). Local and distal recurrence rates with DFS over 3 years will be measured as primary outcome.Data will be collected prospectively and entered in a dedicated database.Discussion:The primary objective of this study is to conduct a multicentre prospective trial to investigate clinical outcomes, in particular disease free survival (DFS) in patients undergoing RLAR and TaTME. The additional goal is to investigate other efficacy measures, complications rates, health economic aspects and patient reported health related quality of life.This paper describes an important trial conducted in expert centres to establish the needed knowledge for a detailed comparison of outcomes for TaTME versus RLAR.This trial is the first comparative study, comparing TaTME and RLAR, seeking to establish foothold for tailor-made surgical treatment of low rectal cancer patients.Trial registration:The trial is registered in clinicaltrials.gov September 2019. Clinicaltrials.gov id: NCT04200027.

Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision for Rectal Cancer

Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision for Rectal Cancer

Magnetic resonance imaging pelvimetry predicts the technical difficulty of rectal surgery

BackgroundThe relationships between the pelvimetry and technical difficulties in performing rectal surgery for mid-low rectal cancer remain unclear. MethodsTwo hundred and twenty-one cases of mid-low rectal cancer patients who underwent sphincter-preserved total mesorectum excision (TME) were analyzed. The data of the pelvimetry and the relative position between trocar site and tumor were measured with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). ResultsUnivariate analysis showed that the interspinous diameter, the sacrococcygeal distance, and the angle of sacral promontory inclination were significantly associated with the technical difficulty during laparoscopic surgery, but only the interspinous diameter remained an independent risk factor in multivariate analysis. The simulated trocar angle θ was an independent risk factor affecting the operation time during laparoscopic surgery, simulated trocar angle η was significantly related to intraoperative blood loss in both laparoscopic surgery and transanal TME (taTME) surgery groups. ConclusionInterspinous diameter can predict difficulty in laparoscopic surgery and may provide useful information for preoperative planning and consideration of approach.