[Anatomic factors and preventive techniques for anastomotic complications after transanal total mesorectal excision]

Whether the transanal total mesorectal resection (taTME) techniques increase the risk of anastomotic failure is inconclusive. This paper discusses the anastomotic problems of taTME from different aspects including anatomical factors and technical characteristics. In terms of the anatomic and physiological characteristics of the lower rectum, the Hiatal ligament and the density of the perirectal space is a disadvantage to the anastomosis of taTME, while the prolapse of the rectum may be a beneficial factor. Due to the unique technical characteristics of taTME, the main reason affecting its anastomosis at present is that the caudal space at the distal end is not sufficiently mobilized, especially for male and lower anastomosis. In addition, stapled anastomosis at the level of anorectal ring may cause more problems, while manual anastomosis at the lower level may bring better results.