Pelvic exenteration for locally advanced colorectal carcinoma

Pelvic exenteration provided worthwhile palliation and achieved a cumulative five-year survival rate of 38.8% in 49 patients who had carcinoma of the lower colon or rectum infiltrating adjoining pelvic viscera. Survival and the disease-free period were not significantly different after total or posterior exenteration. The stage of disease was the major determinant of outcome: five-year survival rates averaged 51.8% and 28.8% for Stages II and III, respectively. Hospital mortality (26.9%) after total exenteration was chiefly due to technical mishaps, and the inclusion of many high-risk but symptomatic elderly patients. Complete clearance of locally advanced colorectal cancer by pelvic exenteration is indicated in fit patients, especially those with Stage II disease.