Complication Rates Higher in Recurrent Rectal Cancer Patients Undergoing Sacral Resection during Total Pelvic Exenteration

This retrospective study investigated the surgical approach of total pelvic exenteration combined with sacral resection for rectal cancer and its impact on short-term outcomes. The association between the level of sacral resection and complications, specifically exhibiting a Clavien-Dindo grade III, was assessed. The results revealed a significantly higher complication rate for recurrent rectal cancer patients compared to primary cancer patients. In particular, “upper” sacral resection during total pelvic exenteration was found to be linked to a high complication rate in recurrent cases, emphasizing the importance of close monitoring.