Optimizing Rectal Cancer Surgery: Benefits of Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision

In a meta-analysis of four randomized controlled trials (1,339 patients), researchers compared laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (TME) with and without transanal dissection for lower rectal cancers. Those undergoing laparoscopic TME with transanal dissection exhibited lower conversion rates, a higher likelihood of achieving complete TME, and fewer harvested lymph nodes compared to the group without transanal dissection. Both groups showed similar outcomes in operative times, complications, and margin status. The study suggests the advantages of incorporating transanal dissection in rectal cancer surgery.