Video endoscopic transanal-rectal tumor excision

Transanal resection of benign and selected malignant rectal tumors is a well accepted surgical technique. The use of a stereoscopic microsurgical technique, as originally described by Buess et al in 1984, has been shown to improve the results of standard transanal resection by allowing precise, full thickness resections up to 24 cm from the anal verge. Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) has failed to gain widespread popularity for two reasons: The proprietary instrument set is expensive and complex ($68,000 and 30 components), and the procedure is difficult to master technically. We present our results with a modification of the TEM instrument that incorporates a standard laparoscope and video camera as well as standard laparoscopic instruments.

Four surgeons have been trained to date. Details of the training curriculum are presented. The technique of videoendoscopic transanal tumor resection (VTEM) is described. A prospective data base was maintained of all VTEM cases. This was reviewed for this study to determine indications, operative times, complications and outcomes.

Four surgeons performed 27 VTEM cases between August 1994 and June 1996. The average age was 69 years and the majority (16) of patients were ASA III. Pre-op diagnosis was benign polyp in 25 patients and adenocarcinoma in 2. Average operating time was 127 minutes (49 to 280 minutes), and was longer during a surgeon's first 5 cases and for lesions more than 16 cm from the anal verge. Operative problems were rare (4%) and post-op complications (incontinence 2, late bleeding 1, adenoma recurrence 1) were seen in 15%.

VTEM can be taught successfully to GI and colorectal surgeons using a format similar to that used for advanced laparoscopic courses. The use of already available laparoscopes and instruments decreases the initial costs of the set-up. Results are good, with low rates of complications and recurrence and a very short hospital stay. The patient benefits from an effective, minimally invasive alternative to open surgery.