Transanal endoscopic microsurgery for rectal tumours using a Single Incision Laparoscopic Port

Area of Science:

• Colorectal Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Procedures
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) offers a less invasive approach for rectal lesions.
• Early rectal cancer and benign rectal tumors are indications for TEM.
• The SILS Port, originally for laparoscopy, was evaluated for TEM procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the safety and efficacy of using the SILS Port for Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery (TEM).
• To evaluate the outcomes of TEM procedures performed with the SILS Port for rectal lesions.

Main Methods:

• Twenty TEM procedures were performed on 16 patients using the SILS Port.
• Local resection was attempted for all lesions.
• Additional surgeries were performed when necessary based on pathology and extent of tumor.

Main Results:

• Local resection was sufficient in 15 out of 20 procedures.
• Five procedures required additional surgery, including rectal resections and one revision.
• Postoperative complications included grade II (pain, fever, bleeding) and grade IIIb (bleeding) events; no long-term incontinence was observed.

Conclusions:

• TEM utilizing the SILS Port is a safe and effective method for local resection of benign and malignant rectal tumors.
• The use of the SILS Port can potentially increase the availability of TEM due to its lower cost.
• This technique facilitates broader access to TEM procedures in various surgical settings.