Complex rectal polyps: other treatment modalities required when offering a transanal endoscopic microsurgery service

Complex rectal polyps may present a clinical challenge. The study aim was to assess different treatment modalities required in the management of patients referred for transanal endoscopic microsurgery.

Patients referred with complex rectal polyps from 1998 to 2008 were entered prospectively to a colorectal database. These data was analyzed for referral pattern, histology, surgical procedures performed, and subsequent outcome.

Of the 209 patients referred (101 female, 108 male, median age of 65 years, range of 24-89), 132 (63%) were deemed suitable for transanal endoscopic microsurgery. Seventeen patients required a second staged procedure; three patients required an anterior resection at time of index surgery. Seventeen patients referred for transanal endoscopic microsurgery went direct to anterior resection, 37 underwent snare polypectomy (SP), and 17 patients underwent transanal excision. Six patients had no surgery (three unfit for anesthesia and three had no residual lesions). Thus, 37% of the patients referred for transanal endoscopic microsurgery required a different treatment modality.

Majority of patients referred to our unit with complex rectal polyps were suitable for transanal endoscopic microsurgery. However, this study highlights that in offering a transanal microsurgery service, one should be prepared for a diversity of pathology necessitating a range of management options.