[Posterior approach to the rectum. Technic, indications, complications. Apropos of 41 cases]

Certain lesions in the middle part of the rectal ampulla can only be approached with safety through the posterior surface of the rectum after resection of the coccyx and the last part of the sacrum. This approach was employed in 41 patients, with conservation of the sphincter in all cases. Operation was performed 39 times for excision of a large villous tumor, in 1 case for a polycystic lesion, and in 1 case for a localized epithelioma. Extensive tumors in 3 cases required rectal resection with end-to-end anastomosis, employing a circular mechanical suturing apparatus in 1 patient. Two patients died of causes unrelated to the operation, and 5 developed a fistula, three of these cases needing proximal colostomies. Delayed healing of the perineal wound was noted in 5 other patients, residual perineal pain being reported by 2 patients. The posterior approach to the rectum is an exceptional technique, mainly indicated when wide excision of a histologically doubtful tumor cannot be approached from above or below.