[Technique of rectum resection and excision with special reference to TME]

Rectal cancer poses an immense challenge within the field of laparoscopic surgery. Sufficient enlargement on a monitor and improved instruments enable an optimal preparation and the total mesorectal excision. The standardized technique is the key to success. By December 2000, 138 rectal carcinomas were operated upon in laparoscopic technique at our hospital. The operating steps are adapted to the criteria of the "open" surgery. A rectal extirpation was performed in 13%, a continuity resection in 87%. The rate of local recurrence was 3.8% after a follow-up of 40 months, the survival rate in curatively operated patients was 90%.