[Minimally invasive approaches for transanal surgery]

Area of Science:

• Colorectal surgery
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques
• Surgical technology advancements

Background:

• Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) has been a minimally invasive option for colorectal diseases since the 1980s.
• Transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS) emerged as a hybrid technique combining TEM and single-port laparoscopy.
• Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) is a recent development in minimally invasive transanal surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evolution of minimally invasive transanal surgical approaches.
• To highlight technological advancements enhancing transanal endoscopic and extraluminal surgery.
• To discuss the potential of newer transanal techniques for rectal cancer.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM).
• Analysis of the development and hybrid nature of transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS).
• Examination of preliminary data and potential applications of transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME).

Main Results:

• TEM established minimally invasive transanal surgery.
• TAMIS offers a hybrid approach, blending TEM and laparoscopy.
• TaTME presents a promising, albeit preliminary, option for selected rectal cancer patients.

Conclusions:

• Minimally invasive transanal approaches have evolved significantly.
• Technological progress continues to enhance these techniques for various colorectal conditions.
• Further research into TaTME is warranted for its application in rectal cancer surgery.