Modified single stapler technique in anterior resection for rectal cancer

Technical difficulties during colorectal surgery increase the complication rates. We introduce a modified single stapler technique for patients in whom technical problems are encountered while performing double stapler technique. Before pelvic dissection, descending colon is divided at minimum 10 cm proximal to the tumoral segment. Tumor specific mesorectal excision is performed and two purse string sutures are placed at the distal margin with an interval of 1 - 2 cm. After introducing a circular stapler via the anus, the distal purse string suture is tied around the central shaft of the stapler and the proximal purse string suture around the colonic lumen. After the resection is completed between the two sutures, the anvil shaft is connected to the central shaft and the stapler is closed and fired. None of the patients had an anastomotic leak. This technique may be a safe alternative particularly in patients with narrow pelvis and distal tumors

Development of two cancers in the same patient after ileorectal and ileal pouch anal anastomosis for familial adenomatous polyposis

To report a case of a patient with familial adenomatous polyposis. A 36-year-old male patient who suffered from rectal bleeding was treated with colectomy and ileorectal anastomosis for familial adenomatous polyposis [FAR] in 1974. After 19 years, in situ adenocarcinoma was detected in the rectal stump. Completion proctectomy, mucosectomy, and hand-sewn ileal pouch anal anastomosis with protective ileostomy were performed. In 2002, a metachronous cancer was detected at the anastomosis and abdominoperineal resection of the pouch and end ileostomy were performed. Later on, the perineum was excised locally because of cancer recurrence. This case shows that lifetime surveillance of the FAR patients after surgery is crucial