Use of resectoscope for colon cancer

Urologic endoscopic resectoscopes greatly simplify electrofulguration and resection of rectal tumors. The most important advantage is the enhanced visibility that allows determination of the depth of resection and good hemostasis. The indications for this procedure are otherwise-poor surgical candidates, palliation, excision of locally aggressive tumors such as villous adenomas, and bowel diversion prior to definitive therapy. Bleeding, peritoneal perforation requiring colostomy, and postoperative infection have all been reported, but the complication rate appears to be acceptable. Further clinical studies are necessary to determine if, indeed, this can be considered a curative procedure. Finally, because the practicing urologist is intimately aware of the technical aspects of the urologic resectoscope, he will probably be called on to perform, and should be aware of, this procedure.