Urodynamic outcome of waterjet-assisted total mesorectal excision

Waterjet dissection has been proposed for total mesorectal excision. The present study investigated its impact on urodynamic function and oncological outcome.

Thirty patients with rectal cancer were recruited to this prospective study, of whom 25 underwent urodynamic evaluation both before and after surgery.

All patients were capable of spontaneous micturition at a median of 5 months after surgery. Urodynamic measurements revealed a decrease in detrusor pressure of more than 30 mmHg, and residual urine volumes of between 100 and 200 ml, in three patients. No patient had a complete neurogenic voiding disorder. Local recurrences developed in two of 22 patients.

The extent of micturition disorders observed after total mesorectal excision using the waterjet method in this small series is encouraging.