Observations on surgical anatomy for rectal cancer surgery

The investigators studied the surgical anatomy of the main structures involved in the mobilization of the rectum (Denonvilliers' fascia, mesorectum, middle rectal artery, superior and inferior hypogastric plexuses).

The study was carried out on 20 cadavers (17 unembalmed and 3 embalmed). To study Denonvilliers' fascia, ten embryos and fetuses (11 mm to 80 mm CRL) were also examined.

Denonvilliers' fascia originates from the fusion of the primary pouch of Douglas. The two leaves making up this structure are easily separated. The mesorectum surrounds the rectum on three sides; it is easily separated from the presacral fascia and its connective tissue is bordered by a thin membrane. The middle rectal artery varies in appearance rate, origin, size, distribution and anastomosis. It runs under the lateral ligament and also sends branches to the genital apparatus. Of the two hypogastric plexuses, the inferior is the most difficult one to identify. Its superior branches extend to the rectum, and the inferior ones to the genital apparatus. Because the anterior part contains the parasympathetic nerves and the middle rectal artery, this region is at major risk during surgical dissection.

A sound understanding of the surgical anatomy of the rectum enables the surgeon to perform a more correct and reasonable procedure in terms of both the extent of surgical treatment and the preservation of important anatomical structures.