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Updated: May 4, 2026
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Robot-assisted Total Mesorectal Excision and Lateral Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection for Locally Advanced Middle-low Rectal Cancer
Published on: February 12, 2022
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First report: Robotic pelvic exenteration for locally advanced rectal cancer
1Division of Colorectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Korea University Anam Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
Summary
This study shows robotic en bloc resection is feasible for rectal cancer invading the prostate and seminal vesicles. This minimally invasive approach may benefit selected men undergoing complex pelvic surgery.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Surgical Oncology
- Robotic Surgery
Background:
- Rectal cancer invading adjacent pelvic organs presents complex surgical challenges.
- Minimally invasive techniques are increasingly explored for advanced pelvic malignancies.
Observation:
- Three male patients with locally advanced low rectal cancer underwent robotic en bloc resection of the rectum, prostate, and seminal vesicles.
- The da Vinci robotic system facilitated the complex dissection and reconstruction in these cases.
Findings:
- Surgical outcomes were generally favorable, with no major postoperative complications.
- One patient had minor anastomotic leakage, and another experienced a urinary tract infection.
- Microscopic positive margins in one case did not preclude recurrence-free survival at 14 months; other margins were clear.
Implications:
- Robotic pelvic exenteration is a feasible option for select patients with advanced rectal cancer involving the prostate and seminal vesicles.
- This approach may offer advantages in complex male pelvic surgery, potentially improving outcomes and reducing morbidity.
