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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2017; 30(05): 339-345
DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1606111
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision: Why, When, and How

Marta Penna
1   Department of Colorectal Surgery, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford, United Kingdom
,
Christopher Cunningham
1   Department of Colorectal Surgery, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford, United Kingdom
,
Roel Hompes
2   Surgical Oncology and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
27 November 2017 (online)

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Abstract

Transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) has evolved over the past decade fueled by advances in minimally invasive surgery. The technique aims to overcome the constraints posed by a narrow rigid pelvis and poor TME visualization that are encountered during “top-down” rectal surgery. A more accurate pelvic dissection should subsequently result in safer oncological resections and better preservation of pelvic autonomic nerves. taTME is an advanced complex technique that requires dedicated training and experience in TME surgery. Initial results from small cohorts are promising and confirmation by randomized controlled trials is eagerly awaited.

Keywords

transanal - bottom-up - total mesorectal excision - rectal cancer
 

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