Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) resection of rectal tumors

Local excision of rectal cancer is an attractive alternative to avoid the morbidity associated with radical rectal surgery. Oncologic concerns, specifically the inability to fully assess the status of the perirectal lymph nodes and the risk of local recurrence after local excision remain significant barriers to widespread adoption of this technique. Transanal endoscopic microsurgery is an alternative minimally invasive technique used for transanal excision of rectal polyps and tumors. It offers the advantage of better exposure, magnified stereoscopic view, and greater reach into the middle and upper rectum. This technique, combined with careful patient selection, has demonstrated optimistic results compared to standard transanal techniques and even total mesorectal excision when utilized for certain early rectal cancers.