Eight years experience of transanal endoscopic microsurgery

Introduction: Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery (TEM) is a minimally invasive method for management of different proctologic conditions. Despite widespread use of this method, it is not used widely in Iran. This report is about to describe the application of TEM in managing different proctologic conditions in a tertiary colorectal referral center in Iran regarding methods and complications. Methods: All of the patients' documents such as procedure, method, early postop complications and further operations were actively reviewed and the data were entered in to the database. Results: Since 2012 till the end of 2020 chart review was done and 150 cases of TEM operation were found. The most frequent procedure that was done was resection procedure. Using different energy devices during surgery or suturing versus not suturing the defect were not associated with complication. There was a case of in hospital mortality and one case delayed perianal fistula following TEM. Measurement of lesion distance from anal verge was not significantly different using TEM or colonoscopy. Villous adenomas detected in colonoscopy were mostly associated with malignancy. In evaluated resected lesions most of cases had free base and distance from anal verge or using different energy devices were not associated with obtaining free base. Conclusion: TEM is a safe minimal invasive procedure with acceptable complications that could be helped in managing different proctologic conditions and the results of reviewing our patients revealed the same results that is reported from other colorectal centers. (AU)

Microcirugía transanal endoscópica en el tratamiento para el cáncer del recto / Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery for Treating Rectal Cancer

Introducción: La microcirugía transanal endoscópica es un procedimiento mínimamente invasivo que se aplica para el tratamiento local del cáncer del recto en estadios iniciales. Su utilización en estadios más avanzados del cáncer del recto resulta controversial. Sin embargo, con el uso rutinario del tratamiento neoadyuvante constituye una opción atractiva que se ha comenzado a considerar. Objetivo: Evaluar los resultados de la microcirugía transanal endoscópica para el tratamiento del cáncer del recto en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo de una base de datos prospectiva de 18 años. La muestra fue de 150 pacientes que cumplieron con los criterios de selección y las variables estudiadas fueron: edad, sexo, indicación, tiempo quirúrgico, entre otras. Resultados: La principal indicación fue el adenocarcinoma del recto T1. La edad media fue 63 años (32-93); el tiempo quirúrgico, 76 minutos (25-240) y el tamaño tumoral, 2,8 cm (1-4). La estancia hospitalaria fue de 1 día (12 horas-7 días), la morbilidad fue 6,7 porciento y las principales complicaciones posoperatorias fueron el sangramiento, la dehiscencia de sutura, el absceso, la fístula rectovaginal y la estenosis. La recurrencia local fue 8,2 porciento, 7,1 porciento y 2,5 porciento para los adenocarcinomas T1, T2 y T3 respectivamente. La supervivencia global a los 5 años fue 97,5 porciento y la supervivencia libre de enfermedad fue 95,5 porciento. Conclusión: La microcirugía transanal endoscópica es una técnica factible y segura en el tratamiento de los adenocarcinomas T1, mientras que en los T2 y T3 se requiere de la radioquimioterapia preoperatoria(AU)

Introduction: Transanal endoscopic microsurgery is a minimally invasive procedure applied for the local treatment of rectal cancer at early stages. Its use in more advanced stages of rectal cancer is controversial. However, with the routine use of neoadjuvant treatment, it is an attractive option that has begun to be considered. Objective: To assess the outcomes of transanal endoscopic microsurgery for the treatment of rectal cancer at Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso. Methods: A retrospective study of an 18-year prospective database was performed. The sample consisted of 150 patients who met the selection criteria and the variables studied were age, sex, indication, surgical time, among others. Results: The main indication was T1 rectal adenocarcinoma. The mean age was 63 years (32-93); surgical time, 76 minutes (25-240); and tumor size, 2.8 cm (1-4). Hospital stay was 1 day (12 hours-7 days), morbidity was 6.7 percent, and the main postoperative complications were bleeding, suture dehiscence, abscess, rectovaginal fistula and stenosis. Local recurrence was 8.2 percent, 7.1 percent and 2.5 percent for T1, T2 and T3 adenocarcinomas, respectively. Overall survival at 5 years was 97.5 percent and disease-free survival was 95.5 percent . Conclusion: Transanal endoscopic microsurgery is a feasible and safe technique for treating T1 adenocarcinomas, while T2 and T3 adenocarcinomas require preoperative radiochemotherapy(AU)

La escisión total del mesorrecto transanal en el tratamiento del cáncer del recto como nueva técnica en Cuba / Total Excision of the Transanal Mesorectum as a New Technique for Treating Rectal Cancer in Cuba

Introducción: Las indicaciones de la Microcirugía Transanal Endoscópica han evolucionado desde la cirugía de tumoraciones rectales hasta otras enfermedades pélvicas. La asociación de esta y la escisión total del mesorrecto transanal ofrece una serie de ventajas. Objetivo: Determinar las indicaciones, describir la técnica quirúrgica y mostrar los resultados a largo plazo obtenidos en la realización de la escisión total del mesorrecto transanal en el tratamiento del cáncer del recto medio y bajo. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo y prospectivo de los pacientes con cáncer del recto medio y bajo sometidos a esta técnica quirúrgica en el período comprendido entre febrero de 2017 y febrero de 2022 en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso. Resultados: Se operaron 13 pacientes, 9 con cáncer del recto bajo y 4 con cáncer del recto medio y un promedio de edad de 56,2 años (rango 28-76). El promedio de tiempo quirúrgico fue de 183 minutos (rango 120-270) y las pérdidas hemáticas estimadas de 68 mililitros. La incidencia de morbilidad mayor fue de 15,4 por ciento y la media de estadía hospitalaria de 5,4 días. La media del período de seguimiento fue de 35 (rango 9-69) meses con una recidiva local de 7,7 por ciento y una supervivencia global a los 5 años de 100 por ciento. Conclusiones: La escisión total del mesorrecto transanal combinado con cirugía laparoscópica es una técnica factible y segura. La introducción de la variante técnica utilizando el instrumental de la Microcirugía Transanal Endoscópica es más ergonómica y disminuye los costos(AU)

Introduction: The indications for transanal endoscopic microsurgery have evolved from surgery of rectal tumors to other pelvic diseases. The association between this and total excision of the transanal mesorectum offers a series of advantages. Objective: To determine the indications, to describe the surgical technique and to show the long-term outcomes obtained in the performance of total excision of the transanal mesorectum for treating cancer of the middle and lower rectum. Methods: A descriptive and prospective observational study was carried out of patients with cancer of the middle and lower rectum who underwent this surgical technique in the period from February 2017 to February 2022 at Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso. Results: Thirteen patients were operated on, 9 with cancer of the lower rectum and 4 with cancer of the middle rectum, as well as an average age of 56.2 years (range 28-76). The average surgical time was 183 minutes (range 120-270) and estimated blood loss was 68 milliliters. The incidence of highest morbidity was 15.4 percent and mean hospital stay was 5.4 days. The median follow-up period was 35 (range 9-69) months, with a local recurrence of 7.7 percent and an overall 5-year survival of 100 percent . Conclusions: Total excision of the transanal mesorectum combined with laparoscopic surgery is a feasible and safe technique. The introduction of the variant technique using the instruments of endoscopic transanal microsurgery is more ergonomic and reduces costs(AU)

Long-term outcomes of transanal endoscopic microsurgery for clinical complete response after neoadjuvant treatment in T2-3 rectal cancer.

BACKGROUND: Organ sparing by the transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) procedure is a treatment for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer after chemoradiotherapy (CRT) and complete clinical response (cCR). AIMS: To assess the surgical and long-term oncological outcomes of TEM for the treatment in T2-3 rectal cancer after CRT and cCR. METHODS: This study was a retrospective review of a prospective database of patients with rectal cancer who underwent TEM after CRT and cCR from April 2011 to March 2020. RESULTS: 52 patients underwent TEM during a period of 9 years. This group of patients included 27 females and 25 males. The median age was 62 (32-86) years, lesion size was 2.5 (1-4) cm, and lesion distance from the anal verge 7.3 (4-10) cm. Median operative time was 79.5 (25-120) min and hospital stay was 1 day (14 h-4 days). Morbidity rate was 13.5% and reoperation rate due to major complications was 3.8%. Final histological findings confirmed 34 (65.4%) patients with ypT0, 7 (13.5%), 6 (11.5%), and 5 (9.6%) patients with carcinoma ypT1, ypT2, and ypT3, respectively. After a median follow-up period of 86 (5-107) months, 1 (2.4%) patient had local recurrences and 3 (7.3%) distant metastases. The 5-year disease-free survival was 91.7% and 5-year overall survival 89.5%. CONCLUSION: Our experience has shown significant rates of ypT0 and ypT1 associated with excellent long-term results. Performing TEM to treat T2-3N0 rectal cancer after CRT and cCR appears to be an oncologically safe and effective procedure.

Long-term outcomes of endoscopic submucosal dissection and transanal endoscopic microsurgery for the treatment of rectal tumors.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Endoscopic submucosal dissection and transanal endoscopic microsurgery are good options for the treatment of rectal adenomas and early rectal carcinomas, but whether long-term outcomes of these procedures are comparable is not known. The aim of this study was to address this question. METHODS: A retrospective single-center study evaluating 98 consecutive procedures between June 2008 and December 2017 was performed in a tertiary cancer center. Consecutive patients who had undergone either endoscopic submucosal resection or transanal endoscopic microsurgery for rectal adenomas and early rectal carcinomas were evaluated, and long-term recurrence and complication rates were compared. RESULTS: Both groups were similar regarding sex, age, preoperative surgical risk, and en bloc resection rate (95.7% in the endoscopic and 100% in the surgical group, P = 0.81). Mean follow-up period was 37.6 months. Lesions resected endoscopically were significantly larger (68.5 mm) than those resected by transanal resection (44.5 mm), P = 0.003. Curative resections occurred in 97.2% of endoscopic resections and 85.2% of the surgical ones (P = 0.04). Comparing resections that fulfilled histologic curative criteria, there were no recurrences in the endoscopic group (out of 69 cases) and two recurrences in the transanal group (8.3% of 24 cases), P = 0.06. Late complications occurred in 12.7% of endoscopic procedures and 25.9% of surgical procedures (P = 0.13). CONCLUSIONS: In our experience, endoscopic submucosal resection seems to have advantages over transanal endoscopic microsurgery, with similar en bloc resection rate and lower rate of late complications and recurrences. Multicenter randomized controlled trials are needed to support our findings.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection versus transanal endoscopic surgery for the treatment of early rectal tumor: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Minimally invasive treatment of early-stage rectal lesion has presented good results, with lower morbidity than surgical resection. Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) and transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS) are the main methods of transanal surgery. However, endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been gaining ground because it allows en bloc resections with low recurrence rates. The aim of this study was to analyze ESD in comparison with transanal endoscopic surgery. METHODS: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, SciELO, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Lilacs/Bireme with no restrictions on the date or language of publication. The outcomes evaluated were recurrence rate, complete (R0) resection rate, en bloc resection rate, length of hospital stay, duration of the procedure, and complication rate. RESULTS: Six retrospective cohort studies involving a collective total of 326 patients-191 in the ESD group and 135 in the transanal endoscopic surgery group were conducted. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups for any of the outcomes evaluated. CONCLUSIONS: For the minimally invasive treatment of early rectal tumor, ESD and surgical techniques do not differ in terms of local recurrence, en bloc resection rate, R0 resection rate, duration of the procedure, length of hospital stay, or complication rate, however, evidence is very low.

Excisão total de mesorreto transanal combinada à dissecção laparoscópica: resultados perioperatórios e avaliação da qualidade do mesorreto / Transanal total mesorectal excision combined with laparoscopic dissection: perioperative results and assessment of the mesorectal quality

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar os resultados perioperatórios e pós-operatórios relacionados à excisão total do mesorreto transanal, bem como, qualidade dos espécimes obtidos pela excisão total do mesorreto transanal através da análise histopatológica da qualidade do mesorreto, acometimento das margens proximal e distal e positividade da margem circunferencial. Métodos: estudo prospectivo, descritivo, em pacientes consecutivos portadores de adenocarcinoma de reto localizados até 10cm da borda anal, sem metástase à distância, submetidos ou não à quimioterapia e radioterapia neoadjuvantes. Foram avaliados a presença de dificuldades técnicas, índice de conversão para via abdominal, tempo cirúrgico e intercorrências intra e pós-operatórias. A qualidade do mesorreto foi classificada em ressecção completa, parcialmente completa ou incompleta. Resultados: entre dezembro de 2016 e maio de 2019, 41 pacientes foram submetidos à excisão total do mesorreto transanal, dos quais 75% foram classificados como estágio clínico III, 13% estágio clínico II e 12% estágio clínico I. A média de distância entre borda anal e borda inferior do tumor foi de 6,2cm. Quarenta por cento dos tumores encontravam-se na parede retal anterior e 17% foram classificados como circunferenciais. A média de tempo operatório foi de 189 minutos. A média de internação hospitalar foi de 4,6 dias. Não houve óbitos intra-hospitalares. Oitenta e dois por cento dos espécimes foram classificados como ressecção completa. Conclusão: a excisão total do mesorreto transanal demonstra adequada qualidade do mesorreto e adequadas margens cirúrgicas, estando associada a baixos índices de complicações perioperatórias, tempo cirúrgico aceitável e curto tempo de hospitalização.

ABSTRACT Objective: to assess the perioperative and postoperative results of transanal total mesorectal excision, as well as the quality of the specimens obtained by this technique. Methods: we conducted a prospective, descriptive study in consecutive patients with rectal adenocarcinoma located up to 10cm from the anal verge, without distant metastasis, subjected or not to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. We evaluated the presence of technical difficulties, conversion to open abdominal route, surgical time and intra and postoperative complications. Through histopathological analysis, we assessed the quality of the mesorectum, involvement of the proximal and distal margins and positivity of the circumferential, classifying quality of the mesorectum as complete, partially complete or incomplete resection. Results: between December 2016 and May 2019, 41 patients underwent transanal total mesorectal excision, of which 75% were classified as clinical stage III, 13% clinical stage II and 12% clinical stage I. The average distance between the anal verge and the lower border of the tumor was 6.2cm. Forty percent of the tumors were in the anterior rectal wall and 17% were circumferential. The average operative time was 189 minutes. The average hospital stay was 4.6 days. There were no in-hospital deaths. Eighty-two percent of the specimens were classified as complete resection. Conclusion: transanal total mesorectal excision demonstrates adequate specimen quality and surgical margins, being associated with lower rates of perioperative complications, acceptable surgical time and short hospitalization.

Continence changes following transanal endoscopic microsurgery result from the impact on rectal capacity: clinical and functional evaluation before and after surgical treatment / Alterações da continência após microcirurgia endoscópica transanal resultam do impacto sobre a capacidade retal: avaliação clínica e funcional antes e após tratamento cirúrgico

ABSTRACT Introduction: Described in 1983 and with a stable clinical application, the impact of Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery on anorectal function remains unknown. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the impact of Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery on anorectal function according to clinical (Wexner score) and functional (anorectal manometry) evaluations before and after surgery. Method: Prospectively, 23 consecutive patients with rectal lesions were operated using TEO® equipment (Karl Storz, Tuttlingen, Germany). For all patients, the value of Wexner score was obtained before and after surgery (7, 30 and 90 days) and anorectal electromanometry was performed before surgery, and also postoperatively (30 and 90 days). Results: Fourteen patients were men. The mean age was 53.7 (24-81) years. The mean distance from the lesion to the pectineal line was 7 (2-15) cm. The histopathologic analysis revealed adenoma in 14 (61%); neuroendocrine tumor in 5 (21.7%); invasive carcinoma in 3 (13%); and hyperplastic polyp in 1 (4.3%) case. The mean duration of postoperative follow-up was 5 (3-7) months. Wexner score was significantly lower at 30 days compared to 7 days (Wilcoxon; p = 0.03). Rectal capacity was significantly lower 30 days after surgery and recovered at 90 days of surgery (ANOVA; p = 0.04). Conclusions: After Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery, a modest impact on anorectal function can be observed. The transient impairment results from loss of rectal capacity and not from impairment of the anal sphincters, being completely resolved 90 days after surgery.

RESUMO Introdução: Descrita em 1983 e de sólida aplicação clínica, o impacto da Microcirurgia Endoscópica Transanal sobre a função anorretal permanece pouco conhecido. Os objetivos do presente estudo foram avaliar o impacto da Microcirurgia Endoscópica Transanal na função anorretal conforme avaliações clínica (Wexner score) e funcional (manometria anorretal) antes e após a cirurgia. Método: Prospectivamente, 23 pacientes consecutivos com lesões retais foram operados com o uso do equipamento TEO® (Karl Storz, Tuttlingen, Alemanha). Para todos os pacientes, o valor do escore de Wexner foi obtido antes e após a cirurgia (7, 30 e 90 dias) e a eletromanometria anorretal foi realizada antes da cirurgia e também no pós-operatório (30 e 90 dias). Resultados: Quatorze pacientes eram homens. A idade média foi 53,7 (24-81) anos. A distância média da lesão à linha pectínea foi de 7 (2-15) cm. A histopatológica revelou adenoma em 14 (61%), tumor neuroendócrino em 5 (21,7%); carcinoma invasivo em 3 (13%) e pólipo hiperplásico em 1 (4,3%) caso. A duração média do seguimento pós-operatório foi de 5 (3-7) meses. O escore de Wexner foi significativamente menor aos 30 dias em comparação com 7 dias (Wilcoxon; p = 0,03). A capacidade retal foi significativamente menor aos 30 dias após a cirurgia e recuperada aos 90 dias após a cirurgia (ANOVA; p = 0,04). Conclusões: Após Microcirurgia Endoscópica Transanal, um impacto modesto na função anorretal pode ser observado. O comprometimento transitório resulta de perda de capacidade retal e não por comprometimento dos esfíncteres anais cessando completamente 90 dias após a cirurgia.

Endoscopic Endonasal Transplanum Transtuberculum Approach for the Resection of a Large Suprasellar Craniopharyngioma.

Objectives To demonstrate an endoscopic endonasal transplanum transtuberculum approach for the resection of a large suprasellar craniopharyngioma. Design Single-case-based operative video. Setting Tertiary center with dedicated skull base team. Participants A 72-year-old male patient diagnosed with a suprasellar craniopharyngioma. Main Outcomes Measured Surgical resection of the tumor and preservation of the normal surrounding neurovascular structures. Results A 72-year-old male patient presented with a 1-year history of progressive bitemporal visual loss. He also referred symptoms suggestive of hypogonadism. Neurological examination was unremarkable and endocrine workup demonstrated mildly elevated prolactin levels. Magnetic resonance images demonstrated a large solid-cystic suprasellar lesion, consistent with the diagnosis of craniopharyngioma. The lesion was retrochiasmatic, compressed the optic chiasm, and extended into the interpeduncular cistern ( Fig. 1 ). Because of that, the patient underwent an endoscopic endonasal transplanum transtuberculum approach. 1 2 3 The nasal stage consisted of a transnasal transseptal approach, with complete preservation of the patient's left nasal cavity. 4 The cystic component of the tumor was decompressed and its solid part was resected. It was possible to preserve the surrounding normal neurovascular structures ( Fig. 2 ). Skull base reconstruction was performed with a dural substitute, a fascia lata graft, and a right nasoseptal flap ( Video 1 ). The patient did well after surgery and referred complete visual improvement. However, he also presented pan-hypopituitarism on long-term follow-up. Conclusions The endoscopic endonasal route is a good alternative for the resection of suprasellar lesions. It permits tumor resection and preservation of the surrounding neurovascular structures while avoiding external incisions and brain retraction. The link to the video can be found at: https://youtu.be/zmgxQe8w-JQ .

Abordaje microquirúrgico transanal. Experiencia inicial. Indicaciones y resultados / Transanal microsurgical approach. Initial experience. Indications and results

Introducción: El tratamiento quirúrgico de las afecciones del recto bajo se encuentra en permanente revisión intentando mantener una adecuada función de continencia y urogenital. Una opción reciente es el abordaje microquirúrgico transanal. El objetivo del trabajo es evaluar una serie de pacientes tratados mediante dicho abordaje, analizando indicaciones, resultados inmediatos y alejados. Material y método: Se seleccionaron 41 pacientes operados en el período comprendido entre febrero de 2009 y febrero de 2015. Resultados: En 41 pacientes, las afecciones tratadas fueron: pólipos, 22; cáncer de recto, 14; estenosis de anastomosis, 2; absceso retrorrectal, 1; endometriosis, 1; poliposis adenomatosa familiar, 1. Los pacientes con pólipos llegaron a consulta: por primera vez, 15; recidivados, 4; segunda recidiva, 2; tercera recidiva, 1. Los procedimientos realizados fueron: resección local, 29; microcirugía transanal transabdominal (TATA), 6; dilatación de estenosis, 4; biopsia transrectal, 3; drenaje de absceso retrorrectal, 1; control de hemorragia, 1; colocación de stent, 1. En cáncer de recto: resección local, 7; biopsia transrectal, 2; TATA, 4; colocación de stent, 1. El tiempo operatorio promedio fue 48,6 minutos, y la estadía hospitalaria promedio 2,21 días. De los 29 pacientes en quienes se realizó resección local, fueron controlados 25 durante un período de 6 a 72 meses. Se complicaron 11 pacientes, sin mortalidad ni recidivas locales. Conclusiones: Este abordaje permite tratar lesiones del recto y último segmento del colon sigmoides. Otorga mejor visión permitiendo una disección más exacta, mejorando resultados postoperatorios inmediatos y alejados en patología benigna y maligna, minimizando la posibilidad de recidivas. (AU)

Introduction: The surgical treatment of conditions located at the low rectum is in constant review, triying to maintain proper urogenital and continence function. One of the most recent options is the transanal microsurgical. The aim of this paper is to analyze a series of patients treated with this approach, its indications, immediate and long term results. Material and Methods: 41 patients were analyzed retrospectively in the period between February 2009 and February 2015. Results: In these patients, treated conditions were polyps: 22; rectal cancer: 14; anastomotic stricture: 2; retrorectal abscess: 1; endometriosis: 1; familial adenomatous polyposis: 1. Patients affected with polyps reached the first consultation in 15 opportunities; 4 on first recurrence; 2 with second recurrence; 1 with third recurrence. The procedures were 29 local resections; 6 transanal transabdominal resections (TATA); 4 dilations of stenosis; 3 transrectal biopsies; 1 retrorectal abscess drainage; 1 hemorrhage control; 1 stent placement. In rectal cancer were: 7 local resection; 2 transrectal biopsies; 4 TATA; 1 stent placement. Mean operative time was 48.6 minutes and mean hospital stay was 2.21 days. Of the 29 patients in whom local resection was performed, 25 were controlled for a period of 6 to 72 months. 11 patients were complicated; no deaths or local recurrences were registered. Conclusions: This approach allows to treat lesions located throughout the rectum and the last segment of sigmoid colon. A better insight is obtained allowing a more accurate dissection, thus improving the immediate and remote postoperative results and minimizes the possibility of recurrence, particularly when it comes to benign conditions. (AU)

Local Excision and Endoscopic Resections for Early Rectal Cancer.

Radical surgery is considered as the standard treatment for rectal cancer. Transanal local excision has been considered an interesting alternative for the management of selected patients with rectal cancers for many decades. Different approaches had been considered for local excision, from endoscopic submucosal dissection to resections using platforms, such as transanal endoscopic microsurgery or transanal minimally invasive surgery. Identifying the ideal candidate for this approach is crucial, as a local failure after local excision is associated with poor outcomes, even for an initial early rectal tumor. In this article, the diagnostic tools and criteria to select patients for local excision, the different modalities used, and the outcomes are discussed.

Pneumoretroperitoneum and Sepsis After Transanal Endoscopic Resection of a Rectal Lateral Spreading Tumor.

Transanal endoscopic microsurgery is considered a safe, appropriate, and minimally invasive approach, and complications after endoscopic microsurgery are rare. We report a case of sepsis and pneumoretroperitoneum after resection of a rectal lateral spreading tumor. The patient presented with rectal mucous discharge. Colonoscopy revealed a rectal lateral spreading tumor. The patient underwent an endoscopic transanal resection of the lesion. He presented with sepsis of the abdominal focus, and imaging tests revealed pneumoretroperitoneum. A new surgical intervention was performed with a loop colostomy. Despite the existence of other reports on pneumoretroperitoneum after transanal endoscopic microsurgery, what draws attention to this case is the association with sepsis.

Postoperative complications in the treatment of rectal neoplasia by transanal endoscopic microsurgery: a prospective study of risk factors and time course.

PURPOSE: Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) is a safe and efficient minimally invasive treatment for rectal benign and early malignant neoplasia, but postoperative complications may be severe. We aimed to evaluate the risk factors related to the incidence, severity, and time course of postoperative complications of TEM. METHODS: This is a prospective study of postoperative complications in 53 patients (>18 years old) with benign or early rectal neoplasia who underwent TEM with curative intention or, for higher stages, palliation. Outcome measures included age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, lesion height and size, pathologic margins, tumor histology, and suture type. RESULTS: Overall morbidity was 50 %. Temporary fecal incontinence was the most frequent complication (17.3 %). Complication rates of Clavien-Dindo grades I and II were 21.1 % and those of grades III and IV 3.8 %. Of patients with complications, more had lesions under the first rectal valve than over the first valve (61.54 % vs 38.46 %, p = 0.04). Patients submitted to chemoradiotherapy had a 24-fold greater chance of presenting grade II complications (p = 0.002). When the surgical defect was treated using the TEM device to perform the suture, the chance of having grade III complications was reduced 16-fold (p = 0.04). Fifty-three percent of complications occurred in the first 10 days and 95 % within 20 days. CONCLUSIONS: Postoperative complications after transanal endoscopic microsurgery for the treatment of rectal neoplasia are frequent, acceptable, and usually controllable with pharmacologic treatment. Over time the nature of complications is continuous, centered on the first 20 days after surgery.

Resección de tumoración rectal mediante cirugía transanal mínimamente invasiva (TAMIS) / Rectal tumor resected by transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS)

La microcirugía endoscópica transanal (TEM, por sus siglas en inglés) es una técnica que se ha desarrollado desde los años 80 y tiene múltiples indicaciones. La cirugía transanal mínimamente invasiva (TAMIS, por sus siglas en inglés) se ha introducido como un enfoque alternativo al TEM, con las mismas indicaciones y algunas ventajas. Se reporta aquí el primer caso en Costa Rica de TAMIS, practicada exitosamente en un paciente de 85 años con una tumoración rectal de 4 cm de diámetro.

Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery (TEM, for its acronym in English) is a technique developed in the 80s, which has many uses. Transanal Minimally Invasive Surgery (TAMIS, for its acronym in English) has been introduced as an alternative approach to TEM, with the same indications and some advantages. The case of an 85-yearold male with a 4 cm in diameter rectal tumor successfully resected by TAMIS is herein reported, which is the first case treated in this manner in Costa Rica.

Fragmented pattern of tumor regression and lateral intramural spread may influence margin appropriateness after TEM for rectal cancer following neoadjuvant CRT.

BACKGROUND: The main tenets of local excision of rectal cancer following neoadjuvant chemoradiation (CRT) are that the mucosal scar represents the main focus of residual disease and a solid conglomerate around this rather than being scattered (fragmented) through the bowel wall. METHODS: Retrospective review of a prospective cohort of patients with residual rectal ycT1-2N0 adenocarcinoma with small residual tumors (≤3 cm) following CRT who underwent transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) with 1-cm margins around the residual mucosal abnormality was performed. Distribution and morphology (solid vs. fragmented) of tumor spread were studied and correlated to postoperative oncological outcomes. RESULTS: Thirty patients were included. Twenty percent (n = 6) were ypT1, 60% (n = 18) were ypT2, and 20% (n = 6) were ypT3 tumors. Fragmentation was present in 37%. The mean distance between foci of residual scattered tumor was 3.6 ± 2.0 mm. Lateral spread under normal mucosa was present in 19 specimens (53%; mean extension 4.8 ± 2.4 mm). With a median follow up of 32 months, none of these findings impacted upon development of recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: Both occult lateral spread and fragmented tumor patterns are common findings after CRT. Despite the potential of occult spread to mislead surgeon choice of resection margin, its presence did not influence oncological outcome in this series.

Feasibility of an endoscopic approach to the axillary nerve and the nerve to the long head of the triceps brachii with the help of the Da Vinci Robot.

Surgery to transfer the axillary nerve and the nerve of the long head of the triceps presents two obstacles: 1) the access portals are not standardized and 2) the nerves are for their larger part approached through large incisions. The goal of this study was to explore the feasibility of an endoscopic microsurgical approach. The posterior aspect of a cadaver shoulder was approached through three communicating mini-incisions. The Da Vinci robot camera was installed on a central trocart, and the instrument arms on the adjacent trocarts. A gas insufflation distended the soft tissues up to the lateral axillary space. The branches of the axillary nerve and the nerve to the long head of the triceps brachii muscle were identified. The dissection of the axillary nerve trunk and its branches was easy. The posterior humeral circumflex veins and artery were dissected as well without any difficulty. Finding the nerve to the long head of the triceps brachii was found to be more challenging because of its deeper location. Robots properties allow performing conventional microsurgery: elimination of the physiologic tremor and multiplication of the movements. They also facilitate the endoscopic approach of the peripheral nerves, as seen in our results on the terminal branches of the axillary nerve and the nerve to the long head of the triceps brachii.

Instabilidade de microssatélite - MSI nos marcadores (BAT26, BAT25, D2s123, D5S346, D17S250) no câncer de reto / Microsatellite instability - MSI markers (BAT26, BAT25, D2S123, D5S346, D17S250) in rectal cancer

RACIONAL: O câncer colorretal tem importante componente genético. Os microssatélites são considerados marcadores fenotípicos de prognóstico, resposta terapêutica e de identificação de pacientes com mutação nos genes de reparo do DNA. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar o perfil molecular dos tumores submetidos à microcirurgia endoscópica transanal (TEM) para tratamento do câncer de reto. MÉTODO: Foram selecionados 38 espécimes avaliados segundo o estadiamento patológico. Foram escolhidas amostras da região tumoral e realizada dissecação e extração do DNA. Os tumores colorretais foram testados para instabilidade de microssatélite - MSI utilizando um painel composto de cinco marcadores (BAT25, BAT26, D2S123, D5S346 e D17S2720), técnica da reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR). RESULTADOS: Nos 38 casos observou-se que 63% eram do sexo masculino e 47% feminino com média de idade de 58,4 anos. Em relação ao tipo tumoral 58% eram adenomas, sendo 24% adenomas de baixo grau e 76% de alto grau; 42% eram carcinomas. Quanto à profundidade de ressecção, verificou-se que 80% dos casos incluíam a gordura perirretal e 20% até a muscular própria. O microssatélite com maior frequência de amplificação foi o BAT26 (100%) e o menor D17S2720 (85,4%). Dezesseis casos (42%) apresentaram MSI; eram dez carcinomas, dois adenomas de baixo grau e quatro de alto grau. Vinte e dois casos (68%) tinham microssatélite estáveis - MSS. A perda alélica dos marcadores de microssatélites foi estatisticamente significante nos casos de carcinoma em relação a adenomas. O microssatélite com maior frequência de amplificação foi o BAT26 (100%) e o menor D17S2720 (85,4%); 16 casos (42%) apresentaram instabilidade de microssatélite - MSI. Desses, dez eram carcinomas, dois adenomas de baixo grau e quatro de alto grau; 22 casos (58%) apresentaram microssatélite estáveis - MSS. CONCLUSÃO: A instabilidade de microssatélite (MSI-H) foi significantemente associada com carcinomas retais, confirmando sua utilização como marcador prognóstico na carcinogênese retal.

BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer has an important genetic component. Microsatellites are considered phenotypic markers of prognosis, therapeutic response and identify patients with mutations in DNA repair genes. AIM: To evaluate the molecular profile of tumors underwent to transanal endoscopic microsurgery - TEM in surgical treatment of rectal cancer. METHOD: Thirty eight surgical specimens were evaluated according to pathological staging and the region of the tumor were dissected and submitted to DNA extraction. The colorectal tumors were tested for microsatellite instability - MSI using a panel of five markers (BAT25, BAT26, D2S123, D5S346, and D17S2720) technique of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). RESULT: From total 63% were male and 47% female, with mean age of 58.4 years. In relation to tumor type adenomas were 58%, 24% low-grade adenomas and 76% high grade; 42% were carcinomas. The depth of resection 80% included the rectal perirenal fat and 20% the muscularis propria. The most frequent microsatellite amplification was BAT26 (100%) and lowest D17S2720 (85.4%). Sixteen patients (42%) were MSI, ten were carcinomas, two low grade adenomas and four high grade. Twenty-two cases (68%) showed microsatellite stable - MSS. The allelic loss of microsatellite markers was statistically significant in cases of carcinoma in relation to adenomas. The most frequent microsatellite amplification was BAT26 (100%) and lower D17S2720 (85.4%), 16 patients (42%) had microsatellite instability - MSI thereof ten were carcinomas, two low grade adenomas, four high-grade adenomas and 22 cases (58%) were microsatellite stable - MSS. CONCLUSION: Microsatellite instability (MSI-H) was significantly associated with rectal carcinomas, confirming its use as a prognostic marker in colorectal carcinogenesis.

Microcirurgia endoscópica transanal e tratamento adjuvante no câncer retal precoce / Transanal endoscopic microsurgery and adjuvant therapy in the treatment of early rectal cancer

RACIONAL: A excisão total do mesorreto é considerada a operação padrão no tratamento dos tumores do reto, apesar de não existir comprovação científica de que ela deva ser usada para todos os estádios da doença. Tem sido demonstrado que em casos escolhidos de tumores retais, resultados promissores podem ser conseguidos com tratamento local por microcirurgia endoscópica transanal. Tais tumores, denominados de câncer retal precoce, são tumores T1 - menores do que 4 cm -, bem diferenciados sem invasão angiolinfática pT1 Sm1. Como o risco de comprometimento linfonodal nesses tumores é de aproximadamente 3 por cento, a ressecção local teria grande chance de ser curativa. OBJETIVO: Apresentar os resultados de uma série prospectiva não randômica de pacientes portadores de câncer retal precoce submetidos ao tratamento local por microcirurgia endoscópica transanal. MÉTODOS: Entre 2002 e 2010, 38 pacientes avaliados por protocolo pré-operatório como portadores câncer retal precoce foram submetidos à ressecção local endoscópica microcirúrgica de toda a parede retal com o tumor quando localizado entre 2 e 8 cm da linha pectínea. A avaliação pré-operatória consistiu de toque retal, retossigmoidoscopia rígida para macrobiópsias, enema opaco e/ou colonoscopia, ultrassonografia endoretal e abdominal, tomografia axial computadorizada do abdome, radiografia do tórax e dosagem sérica do CEA. Realizou-se seguimento pós-operatório endoscópico e ultrassonográfico endoretal a cada três meses nos dois primeiros anos, e a cada seis nos próximos três anos, além de dosagem do CEA a cada seis meses nesse mesmo período de cinco anos. Avaliou-se a recidiva tumoral, morbidade e mortalidade. RESULTADOS: Após avaliação anatomopatológica da lesão, 29 cânceres retais precoces foram categorizados como de baixo risco e nove sendo de alto. O seguimento na série variou de um a sete anos. Recidiva tumoral foi confirmada em dois casos dos 38 (5,26 por cento), uma lesão considerada de alto...

BACKGROUND: The total mesorectal excision is considered the standard operation in the treatment of rectal tumors, although there is no scientific proof that it should be used for all stages of the disease. It has been demonstrated that in selected cases of rectal tumors, promising results can be achieved with local treatment by transanal endoscopic microsurgery. These tumors, called early rectal cancer, T1 tumors, are less than 4 cm, well differentiated without angiolymphatic invasion - pT1 SM1. As the risk of lymph node involvement in these tumors is approximately 3 percent, local resection would have a great chance to be curative. AIM: To present the results of a non-random prospective series of patients with early rectal cancer treated by transanal endoscopic microsurgery. METHODS: Between 2002 and 2010, 38 patients evaluated by preoperative protocol as patients with early rectal cancer underwent endoscopic microsurgical resection of the entire rectal wall including the tumor when located between 2 and 8 cm from the dentate line. The preoperative evaluation consisted of digital rectal examination, rigid sigmoidoscopy macrobiopsies, barium enema and/or colonoscopy, endorectal ultrasound and abdominal computed tomography of the abdomen, chest radiography and serum CEA. Was conducted follow-up with endoscopy and endorectal ultrasound every three months during the first two years, and every six in the next three years, and CEA every six months during the same period of five years. Was evaluated the tumor recurrence, morbidity and mortality. RESULTS: Pathologic evaluation considered 29 categorized as low risk and nine being high. The follow-up in the series ranged from one to seven years. Tumor recurrence was confirmed in two of the 38 cases (5.26 percent), in one the lesion was considered high and another low risk. CONCLUSION: Transanal endoscopic microsurgery associated or not to adjuvant therapy, may be, currently, considered the gold standard in...