RESUMO
Aim: Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) is a main treatment technique for rectal adenomas, but can also be used for selected malignant tumors. This study presents TEM experience. Methods: The study enrolled patients with rectal adenomas, and selected adenocarcinomas. Preoperative work-up included: digital rectal examination, rectoscopy with biopsy, colonoscopy, EUS, pelvic MRI. Results: Three hundred and thirty patients [mean age of 61,4±10 (3388)] underwent TEM. The mean size ± SD of tumors was 3.2±1.2 cm (0.610.0). Mean distance from anal verge was 6.7±2.6 cm (2.014.0). Preoperative biopsy revealed: adenoma 263/330 (79,7%), adenocarcinoma 67/330 (20,3%). The median operating time was 40 (15220) min. Tumor-free margins were obtained in all operative specimens. In 5/330 (1.5%) cases tumors were fragmented. The morbidity rate was 19/330 (5.7%). Pathological investigation revealed: adenoma in 192/330 (58.1%) cases, adenocarcinoma stage Tis, T1, T2 and T3 in 138/330 (41.9%). Median follow-up lasted for 24 (157) months. Five patients (2.0%) with adenoma and four patients (5.2%) with adenocarcinoma had local recurrence. Conclusion: Transanal endoscopic microsurgery for rectal adenomas and selected malignant tumors is associated with low morbidity and low recurrents rates.
