Transrectal natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) for colorectal resection

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) represents a novel surgical approach.
• Current research predominantly focuses on oral or vaginal access routes for NOTES.
• Transanal access, despite contamination concerns, presents distinct advantages for specific procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present and discuss preclinical and clinical research on transanal NOTES colorectal resections.
• To evaluate the feasibility and potential of the transanal route for NOTES procedures.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing preclinical research on transanal NOTES.
• Analysis of clinical case studies and outcomes of transanal NOTES colorectal resections.
• Discussion of surgical techniques and challenges associated with the transanal approach.

Main Results:

• Demonstration of successful transanal NOTES colorectal resections in preclinical models.
• Presentation of initial clinical data supporting the safety and efficacy of transanal NOTES.
• Identification of key considerations for contamination control and surgical execution.

Conclusions:

• Transanal NOTES is a viable and promising route for colorectal surgery.
• Leveraging existing transanal surgical expertise can facilitate the advancement of NOTES.
• Further research is warranted to optimize techniques and expand clinical applications.