[Promoting the colorectal surgery in virtue of new theories and techniques]

Since the 21st century, with the development of minimally invasive surgical technology, the update of comprehensive treatment strategies and the progress of clinical research, colorectal surgery has developed rapidly. However, in recent years, some disputable issues still exist in colorectal surgery, such as transanal total mesorectal excision, pelvic cavity lateral lymph node dissection, the "wait and observe" strategy for clinical complete remission of rectal cancer after neoadjuvant therapy, and robotic colorectal surgical operation. In addition, the application of three dimensions imaging, 4K resolution, 5th generation wireless systems, virtual reality, artificial intelligence and other new techniques may provide extensive space and new opportunity for the development of colorectal surgery. The therapic outcome could be optimized by more relevant clinical research and evidence, which contribute to the standardization of surgical treatment of colorectal cancer.