Local excision of rectal tumors: specimen orientation

Transanal local excision is a management option for patients with rectal tumors. An important final step in this operation is specimen orientation. A simple technique is described for specimen preparation, ideally performed by the surgeon in the operating room. This technique is recommended as the concluding step, for it can be as important as the local excision itself in regard to the determination of adequacy of resection and the need for additional treatment.