Transanal resection for villous adenomas using the Fansler proctoscope

Benign rectal tumours represent a frequently occurring condition that often requires surgical treatment. In the literature, Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery (TEM) has claimed a position as the gold standard for this kind of transanal surgery. In this study, we evaluate the results in a series of 34 patients who underwent a transanal resection after an extensive pre-operative work-up, using the Fansler proctoscope. Although the level of evidence in retrospective studies may have its limitations, our results seem to meet those of TEM in the literature. Also, the Fansler proctoscope provides us with a much more economical and easier to learn method. We conclude that the Fansler proctoscope approach can be a valuable alternative to TEM in the treatment of benign rectal tumours.