Stoma-site approach single-port laparoscopic versus conventional multi-port laparoscopic Miles's procedure for low rectal cancer: A prospective, randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare perioperative outcomes of patients with low rectal cancer after stoma-site approach single-port laparoscopic Miles procedure or conventional multi-port laparoscopic Miles procedure, as well as to evaluate the safety and efficacy of stoma-site approach single-port laparoscopic surgery in low rectal cancer.

METHODS

Between September 2020 and September 2021, 51 low rectal cancer patients scheduled for Miles procedure at the Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery of Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College were randomly assigned to the single-port laparoscopic surgery group (SPLS) and the multi-port laparoscopic surgery (MPLS) group. The perioperative outcomes were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

In this study, 25 patients underwent SPLS and 26 underwent MPLS. All patients completed the study, and there were no perioperative deaths in either group. Observation indicators such as intraoperative bleeding (39 mL vs. 41 mL), number of lymph nodes (20.12 ± 3.29 vs. 21.84 ± 3.74), average hospital stay (7.15 ± 1.52 vs. 7.64 ± 1.66), and time to flatulence (2.5d vs. 2.5d) showed no significant differences between the SPLS and MPLS groups (p > 0.05). However, the operation duration (180 min vs. 118 min) and perioperative complications showed statistically significant differences between the two groups (p < 0.05). In addition, patients in the SPLS group had significantly higher satisfaction scores than those in the MPLS group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

For patients with low rectal cancer requiring Miles surgery, stoma-site approach single-port laparoscopic surgery has comparable safety and efficacy to multi-port laparoscopic surgery.

Clinical significance of metastatic tumor deposit foci in rectal cancer in the lateral pelvic lymph node area

BACKGROUND

Although previous studies have demonstrated that tumor deposits (TDs) are associated with worse prognosis in colon cancer, their clinical significance in rectal cancer has not been fully elucidated, especially in the lateral pelvic lymph node (LPLN) area. This study aimed to clarify the clinical significance of TDs, focusing on the number of metastatic foci, including lymph node metastases (LNMs) and TDs, in the LPLN area.

METHODS

This retrospective study involved 226 consecutive patients with cStage II/III low rectal cancer who underwent LPLN dissection. Metastatic foci, including LNM and TD, in the LPLN area were defined as lateral pelvic metastases (LP-M) and were evaluated according to LP-M status: presence (absence vs. presence), histopathological classification (LNM vs. TD), and number (one to three vs. four or more). We evaluated the relapse-free survival of each model and compared them using the Akaike information criterion (AIC) and Harrell's concordance index (c-index).

RESULTS

Forty-nine of 226 patients (22%) had LP-M, and 15 patients (7%) had TDs. The median number of LP-M per patient was one (range, 1-9). The best risk stratification power was observed for number (AIC, 758; c-index, 0.668) compared with presence (AIC, 759; c-index, 0.665) and histopathological classification (AIC, 761; c-index, 0.664). The number of LP-M was an independent prognostic factor for both relapse-free and overall survival, and was significantly associated with cumulative local recurrence.

CONCLUSION

The number of metastatic foci, including LNMs and TDs, in the LPLN area is useful for risk stratification of patients with low rectal cancer.

The use of the internal pudendal artery perforator flap after abdominoperineal reconstruction: A single center study

Abdominoperineal resection (APR) is still a valuable option in the presence of cancer recurrences or salvage surgery. Primary perineal closure after conventional APR curries a high rate of wound complications. A multidisciplinary approach with perineal soft tissue reconstruction surgical time improves the immediate and long-term prognosis of these patients. The aim of the study is to report our experience with the use of the internal pudendal artery perforator flap in perineal region reconstruction after APR. We performed 11 perineal region reconstructions after conventional APR between September 2016 and December 2020. In 8 cases the reconstruction was performed on previously irradiated tissues while in 2 cases the radiotherapy was carried out on the perineal tissues solely for adjuvant therapy. A rotation perforating flap was harvested in 8 cases, an advance island flap in 2 cases, and a propeller type in one case. All 11 flaps survived with no immediate postoperative major complications. Only one case showed dehiscence of the donor site wound healed with conservative treatment. Average hospitalization time was 11 days internal pudendal artery perforator flap represents a valid and reliable reconstructive solution after APR showing low complication rates and minimal donor site morbidity even in patients with previous radiotherapy.

Transanal total mesorectal excision versus laparoscopic intersphincteric resection for low rectal cancer: a propensity score matching analysis

BACKGROUND

Anus-preserving surgery for low rectal cancer has always been a serious difficulty for surgeons. Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) and laparoscopic intersphincteric resection (ISR) are commonly used Anus-preserving surgeries for low rectal cancer. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical use of two surgical methods.

METHODS

A total of 152 patients with low rectal cancer were treated with taTME in 75 cases and ISR in 77 cases. After propensity score matching, 46 patients in each group were included in the study. Perioperative outcomes, anal function scores (Wexner incontinence score) and quality of life scores (EORTC QLQ C30, EORTC QLQ CR38) at least 1 year after surgery were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of surgical outcomes, pathological examination of surgical specimens, postoperative recovery, and postoperative complications, except for patients in the taTME group who had their indwelling catheters removed later. Anal Wexner incontinence score was lower in taTME group than ISR group (P < 0.05). On the EORTC QLQ-C30 scale, the physical function and role function scores in the ISR group were lower than those in the taTME group (P < 0.05), while the fatigue, pain symptoms, and constipation scores in the ISR group were higher than those in the taTME group (P < 0.05). On the EORTC QLQ-CR38 scale, the scores of gastrointestinal symptoms and defecation problems in the ISR group were higher than those in the taTME group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Compared with ISR surgery, taTME surgery is comparable in terms of surgical safety and short-term efficacy, and has better long-term anal function and quality of life. From the perspective of long-term anal function and quality of life, taTME surgery is a better surgical method for the treatment of low rectal cancer.

Comparative short-term and survival outcomes of three specimen extraction techniques in laparoscopic low rectal cancer surgery: does it affect ileostomy closure?

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to compare the short-term and survival outcomes in laparoscopic low rectal cancer surgery with three different specimen extraction techniques, and whether it affects loop ileostomy closure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A consecutive series of patients with low rectal cancer who underwent laparoscopic low anterior resection plus protective loop ileostomy (LAR-PLI) were enrolled. Three main techniques, namely specimen extraction through auxiliary incision (EXAI), specimen extraction through stoma incision (EXSI), and specimen eversion and extra-abdominal resection (EVER), were employed. The postoperative short-term and survival outcomes of the three techniques and the impact on loop ileostomy closure were compared.

RESULTS

In all, 254 patients were enrolled in this study: 104 (40.9%) in the EXAI group, 104 (40.9%) in the EXSI group, and 46 (18.1%) in the EVER group. For primary surgery, EXAI group had significantly longer operative time (P < 0.001), more intraoperative bleeding (P < 0.001), longer length of abdominal incision (P<0.001), longer time to first flatus (P < 0.001), longer time to first defecation (P < 0.001), longer time to first eat (P < 0.001), and longer postoperative hospital stays (P = 0.005) than the EXSI and EVER groups. The primary postoperative complication rate in the EXAI and EVER group was significantly higher than in the EXSI group (P = 0.005). In loop ileostomy closure, EXAI group had significantly longer operative time (P = 0.001), more bleeding volume, and longer postoperative hospital stays (P < 0.001) than the EXSI and EVER groups. For survival outcomes, the 3-year local recurrence-free survival (LRFS) is 92.6% for all patients. The 3-year LRFS for patients in EXAI, EXSI, and EVER were 90.1%, 95.4%, and 92.7%, with P = 0.476.

CONCLUSIONS

Our single-center results found that in LAR-PLI surgery for low rectal cancer, the short-term outcomes of specimen extraction through the stoma incision or anus were better than that through the auxiliary incision, but the 3-year LRFS was no statistically different.

Does the mesorectal fat area impact the histopathology metrics of the specimen in males undergoing TME for distal rectal cancer?

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the mesorectal fat area (MFA) has an impact on the histopathology metrics of the specimen in male patients undergoing robotic total mesorectal excision (rTME) for cancer in the distal third of the rectum. Prospectively collected data of patients undergoing rTME for resectable rectal cancer by five surgeons during 3 years were extracted from the REgistry of Robotic SURgery for RECTal cancer (RESURRECT). MFA was measured at preoperative MRI. Distal rectal cancer was defined as within 6 cm from the anal verge. Specimen metrics included circumferential resection margin (CRM) measured by pathologists as involved if < 1 mm, distal resection margin (DRM) and TME quality. Of 890 patients who underwent rTME for rectal cancer, a subgroup analysis compared 116/581 (33.4%) with MFA > 20 cm² to 231/581 (66.6%) with MFA ≤ 20 cm². The mean CRM in patients with MFA > 20 cm² was neither statistically nor clinically significantly different from patients with MFA ≤ 20 m² (6.8 ± 5.6 mm vs. 6.0 ± 7.5 mm; p = 0.544). The quality of TME did not significantly differ: complete TME 84.3% vs. 80.3%; nearly complete TME 12.9% vs. 10.1%; incomplete TME 6.8% vs. 5.6%. The DRM was not significantly different: 1.9 ± 1.9 cm vs. 1.9 ± 2.5 cm; p = 0.847. In addition, the intraoperative complication rate was not significantly different: 4.3% (n = 5) vs. 2.2% (n = 5) (p = 0.314). This prospective multicenter study did not find any evidence to support that larger MFA would result in poorer histopathology metrics of the specimen when performing rTME in male patients with distal rectal cancer.

Supine bottom-up extralevator abdominoperineal excision for anorectal adenocarcinoma is not inferior to standard approach and may be thus safely performed

BACKGROUND

Extralevator abdominoperineal excision (APE) for rectal carcinoma has been described in order to improve pathological and oncological results compared to standard APE. To obtain the same oncological advantages as extralevator APE, we have previously described a new procedure starting by a perineal approach: the supine bottom-up APE. Our objective is to compare oncological and surgical outcomes between the supine bottom-up APE and the standard APE.

METHODS

All patients with low rectal adenocarcinoma requiring APE were retrospectively included and divided into 2 groups: supine bottom-up APE (Group A) and standard APE (Group B).

RESULTS

From 2008 to 2016, 61 patients were divided into Groups A (n = 30) and B (n = 31). Postoperative outcomes and median length of stay were similar between groups. Patients from Group A had a significantly longer distal margin (30 [8-120] vs. 20 [1.5-60] mm, p = 0.04) and higher number of harvested lymph nodes (14.5 [0-33] vs. 11 [5-25], p = 0.03) than those from Group B. Circumferential resection margin involvement was similar between groups (28 vs. 22%, p = 0.6), whereas tumors from Group A were significantly larger and more frequently classified as T4 than those from Group B. Operative time was significantly shorter in Group A (437.5 [285-655] minutes) than in Group B (537.5 [361-721] minutes, p = 0.0009). At the end of follow-up, local recurrence occurred in 7 and 16% of patients from Groups A and B (p = 0.68). Three-year overall and disease-free survival rates were similar between groups (87 vs. 90%, p = 0.62 and 61 vs. 63%, p = 0.88, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that supine bottom-up APE doesn't impair surgical outcomes, pathological results, overall and disease-free survivals in comparison with standard APE. This new procedure may be thus safely performed and decrease the operative time. Further randomized multicentric studies are required to confirm these results.

Advances in diagnosis and treatment of low anterior resection syndrome

Rectal cancer is one of the most common cancers. As much as 90% of patients with low rectal cancer complain of increased frequency of defecation, fecal incontinence, and evacuation problems after surgery, which is termed as low anterior resection syndrome (LARS). LARS detrimentally affects the quality of life for patients with rectal cancer. In this paper, we review the pathogenesis, risk factors, assessment tools, and treatment strategies for LARS.

Application of the intestine diversion tube with a double-balloon without ileostomy in low rectal cancer

Background

Ileostomy is often used in low rectal cancer to protect the anastomosis and reduce the incidence of anastomotic leakage. However, the closure of the stoma causes physical and psychological damage to patients. An intestine diversion tube with a double-balloon was designed to remove the need for ileostomy and a secondary surgery, and we sought to verify its effectiveness and safety.

Methods

An intestine diversion tube with a double-balloon was designed, and the experiment was performed in 5 groups of experiment pigs by the same group of physicians. The tube was placed into the ileum through the cecum during surgery. All the animals were anatomized after being anesthetized on the 14th day postoperatively to check the anastomosis and abdominal cavity. The postoperative complications included anastomotic leakage, abdominal or pelvic infection, anastomotic stenosis, postoperative bleeding, intestinal obstruction, reoperation, electrolyte disorder, drainage tube blockage, and drainage tube fall off.

Results

No serious postoperative complications occurred in the 5 animal groups. The average daily drainage tube volume was 188.6 mL, the average drainage tube removal time was 13.4 days, and the average first defecation time was 2.6 days. Postoperative drainage was smooth, and no anastomotic leakage, other complications, or animal deaths occurred.

Conclusions

The use of the intestine diversion tube with a double-balloon was feasible in animal experiments and was safe and effective. The procedure is simple, and suitable for popularization and application in the clinic.

Transanal total mesorectal excision and delayed coloanal anastomosis without stoma for low rectal cancer

The management of low rectal cancer is a perennial challenge for colorectal surgeons. The benefits of transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) in low rectal cancer are to secure the distal margin and avoid surgical space constraints within the deep pelvis. However, anastomotic leak remains an important concern. We report our technique and results combining TaTME with delayed coloanal anastomosis (DCAA) without bowel diversion. First, the splenic flexure, left colon and rectum are laparoscopically mobilized to mid-rectum. TaTME is performed to complete the distal rectal mobilization, and the specimen is delivered transanally and transected. The abdominoperineal colonic pull-through is secured to the anal canal and hypertonic dressing is applied regularly in the ward. The handsewn DCAA is performed one week later. An accompanying video demonstrates this technique. Five consecutive patients with low rectal cancer underwent TaTME with DCAA. All had upfront surgical resection except one who underwent total neoadjuvant therapy. Mean operative duration, blood loss, and length of hospital stay was 290 (250-375) min, 142 (10-200) ml and 11.6 (10-14) days respectively. One patient (20%) suffered a postoperative complication of persistent urinary retention, requiring an indwelling urinary catheter on discharge. There were no cases of open conversion and no instances of anastomotic leakage. Two patients (40%) had minor low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) and one (20%) had major LARS. TaTME and DCAA without stoma are complimentary techniques that augment the minimally invasive effects of laparoscopic sphincter-sparing low rectal cancer surgery, with good perioperative outcomes.

Real-time in vivo distal margin selection using confocal laser endomicroscopy in transanal total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) allows patients with ultralow rectal cancer to be treated with sphincter-saving surgery. However, accurate delineation of the distal resection margin (DRM), which is essential to achieve R0 resection for low rectal cancer in TaTME, is technically demanding.

AIM

To assess the feasibility of optical biopsy using probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) to select the DRM during TaTME for low rectal cancer.

METHODS

A total of 43 consecutive patients who were diagnosed with low rectal cancer and scheduled for TaTME were prospectively enrolled from January 2019 to January 2021. pCLE was used to determine the distal edge of the tumor as well as the DRM during surgery. The final pathological report was used as the gold standard. The diagnostic accuracy of pCLE examination was calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 86 pCLE videos of 43 patients were included in the analyses. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of real-time pCLE examination were 90.00% [95% confidence interval (CI): 76.34%-97.21%], 86.96% (95%CI: 73.74%-95.06%) and 88.37% (95%CI: 79.65%-94.28%), respectively. The accuracy of blinded pCLE reinterpretation was 86.05% (95%CI: 76.89%-92.58%). Furthermore, our results show satisfactory interobserver agreement (κ = 0.767, standard error = 0.069) for the detection of cancer tissue by pCLE. There were no positive DRMs (≤ 1 mm) in this study. The median DRM was 7 mm [interquartile range (IQR) = 5-10 mm]. The median Wexner score was 5 (IQR = 3-6) at 6 mo after stoma closure.

CONCLUSION

Real-time in vivo pCLE examination is feasible and safe for selecting the DRM during TaTME for low rectal cancer (clinical trial registration number: NCT04016948).

Does the mesorectal fat area impact the histopathology metrics of the specimen in males undergoing TME for distal rectal cancer?

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the mesorectal fat area (MFA) has an impact on the histopathology metrics of the specimen in male patients undergoing robotic total mesorectal excision (rTME) for cancer in the distal third of the rectum. Prospectively collected data of patients undergoing rTME for resectable rectal cancer by five surgeons during 3 years were extracted from the REgistry of Robotic SURgery for RECTal cancer (RESURRECT). MFA was measured at preoperative MRI. Distal rectal cancer was defined as within 6 cm from the anal verge. Specimen metrics included circumferential resection margin (CRM) measured by pathologists as involved if < 1 mm, distal resection margin (DRM) and TME quality. Of 890 patients who underwent rTME for rectal cancer, a subgroup analysis compared 116/581 (33.4%) with MFA > 20 cm² to 231/581 (66.6%) with MFA ≤ 20 cm². The mean CRM in patients with MFA > 20 cm² was neither statistically nor clinically significantly different from patients with MFA ≤ 20 m² (6.8 ± 5.6 mm vs. 6.0 ± 7.5 mm; p = 0.544). The quality of TME did not significantly differ: complete TME 84.3% vs. 80.3%; nearly complete TME 12.9% vs. 10.1%; incomplete TME 6.8% vs. 5.6%. The DRM was not significantly different: 1.9 ± 1.9 cm vs. 1.9 ± 2.5 cm; p = 0.847. In addition, the intraoperative complication rate was not significantly different: 4.3% (n = 5) vs. 2.2% (n = 5) (p = 0.314). This prospective multicenter study did not find any evidence to support that larger MFA would result in poorer histopathology metrics of the specimen when performing rTME in male patients with distal rectal cancer.

Long-term outcomes of laparoscopic Extralevator Abdominoperineal excision with modified position change for low rectal Cancer treatment

Background

Extralevator abdominoperineal excision (ELAPE) has been recommended for treating low rectal cancer due to its potential advantages in improving surgical safety and oncologic outcomes as compared to conventional abdominoperineal excision (APE). In ELAPE, however, whether the benefits of intraoperative position change to a prone jackknife position outweighs the associated risks remains controversial. This study is to introduce a modified position change in laparoscopic ELAPE and evaluate its feasibility, safety and the long-term therapeutic outcomes.

Methods

Medical records of 56 consecutive patients with low rectal cancer underwent laparoscopic ELAPE from November 2013 to September 2016 were retrospectively studied. In the operation, a perineal dissection in prone jackknife position was firstly performed and the laparoscopic procedure was then conducted in supine position. Patient characteristics, intraoperative and postoperative outcomes, pathologic and 5-year oncologic outcomes were analyzed.

Results

The mean operation time was 213.5 ± 29.4 min and the mean intraoperative blood loss was 152.7 ± 125.2 ml. All the tumors were totally resected, without intraoperative perforation, conversion to open surgery, postoperative 30-day death, and perioperative complications. All the patients achieved pelvic peritoneum reconstruction without the usage of biological mesh. During the follow-up period, perineal hernia was observed in 1 patient, impaired sexual function in 1 patient, and parastomal hernias in 3 patients. The local recurrence rate was 1.9% and distant metastasis was noted in 12 patients. The 5-year overall survival rate was 76.4% and the 5-year disease-free survival rate was 70.9%.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic ELAPE with modified position change is a simplified, safe and feasible procedure with favorable outcomes. The pelvic peritoneum can be directly closed by the laparoscopic approach without the application of biological mesh.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-10019-2.

Feasibility and advantages analyses of wedge resection without mesentery detached approach applied to closure of loop ileostomy

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the feasibility and advantages of wedge resection plus transverse suture without mesentery detached approach applied to loop ileostomy closure by analyzing the surgical data and the incidence of postoperative complications of patients undergoing this procedure.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of the hospitalization data of patients who underwent ileostomy closure surgery and met the research standards from January 2017 to April 2021 in Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital; all surgeries were performed by the same surgeon. The perioperative data were statistically analyzed by grouping.

RESULTS

In total, 65 patients were enrolled in this study, with 12 in the wedge resection group, 35 in the stapler group, and 18 in the hand suture group. There was no significant difference in operation time between the wedge resection group and stapler group (P > 0.05), but both groups had shorter operation time than that in the hand suture group (P < 0.05). The postoperative exhaustion time of wedge resection group was earlier than that of the others, and cost of surgical consumables in the wedge resection group was significantly lower than that in the stapler group, all with statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). By contrast, there were no statistically significant differences in postoperative complication incidences among the three groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The wedge resection plus transverse suture without mesentery detached approach is safe and easy for closure of loop ileostomy in selected patients, and the intestinal motility recovers rapidly postoperatively. It costs less surgical consumables, and is particularly suitable for the currently implemented Diagnosis-Related Groups payment method.

Analysis of bowel function, urogenital function, and long-term follow-up outcomes associated with robotic and laparoscopic sphincter-preserving surgical approaches to total mesorectal excision in low rectal cancer: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

The present study comparatively analyzed short-term clinical effectiveness and long-term follow-up endpoints associated with robotic-assisted sphincter-preserving surgery (RAS) and laparoscopic-assisted sphincter-preserving surgery (LAS) when used to treat low rectal cancer.

METHOD

Within such a single-center retrospective cohort analysis, low rectal cancer patients that underwent RAS (n=200) or LAS (n=486) between January 2015 and beginning of July 2018 were enrolled.

RESULTS

The mean operative durations in the RAS and LAS cohorts were 249±64 min and 203±47 min, respectively (P<0.001). Temporary ileostomy rates in the RAS and LAS cohorts were 64.5% and 51.6% (P = 0.002). In addition, major variations across such cohorts regarding catheter removal timing, time to liquid intake, time to first leaving bed, and length of hospitalization (all P<0.001). This distal resection margin distance within the RAS cohort was diminished in comparison to LAS cohort (P=0.004). For patients within the LAS cohort, the time required to recover from reduced urinary/female sexual function was > 6 months post-surgery (P<0.0001), whereas within the RAS cohort this interval was 3 months (P<0.0001). At 6 months post-surgery, male sexual function within RAS cohort was improved in comparison to LAS cohort (P<0.001). At 6 months post-surgery, Wexner scores revealed similar results (P<0.001). No major variations within overall or disease-free survival were identified across these cohorts at 3 or 5 years post-surgery.

CONCLUSION

Robotic sphincter-preserving surgery is a safe and effective surgical technique in low rectal patients in terms of postoperative oncological safety and long-term endpoints. And the RAS strategy provides certain additional benefits with respect to short-term urogenital/anorectal functional recovery in treated patients compared to LAS.

Establishment and validation of a nomogram for predicting potential lateral pelvic lymph node metastasis in low rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Identifying lateral pelvic lymph node (LPN) metastasis in low rectal cancer is crucial before treatment. Several risk factors and prediction models for LPN metastasis have been reported. However, there is no useful tool to accurately predict LPN metastasis. Therefore, we aimed to construct a nomogram for predicting LPN metastasis in rectal cancer.

METHODS

We analyzed the risk factors for potential LPN metastasis by logistic regression analysis in 705 patients who underwent primary resection of low rectal cancer. We included patients at 49 institutes of the Japan Society of Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery between June 2010 and February 2012. Clinicopathological factors and magnetic resonance imaging findings were evaluated. The nomogram performance was assessed using the c-index and calibration plots, and the nomogram was validated using an external cohort.

RESULTS

In the univariable logistic regression analysis, age, sex, carcinoembryonic antigen, tumor location, clinical T stage, tumor size, circumferential resection margin (CRM), extramural vascular invasion (EMVI), and the short and long axes of LPN and perirectal lymph node (PRLN) were nominated as risk factors for potential LPN metastasis. We identified a combination of the short axis of LPN, tumor location, EMVI, and short axis of PRLN as optimal for predicting potential LPN metastasis and developed a nomogram using these factors. This model had a c-index of 0.74 and was moderately calibrated and well-validated.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to construct a well-validated nomogram for predicting potential LPN metastasis in rectal cancer, and its performance was high.

Impact of Modern Management Strategies on the Clinical Outcome of Patients With Low Rectal Cancer - A Retrospective, Monocentric Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to retrospectively investigate the impact of intersphincteric resection (ISR) and Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols for rectal cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Since we implemented rectal ERAS protocol and ISR in 2016, we retrospectively assessed and compared clinical, pathological and survival outcomes of two groups of patients: group 1, treated 2000-2015 (n=242); and group 2, treated 2016-2020 (n=108). Propensity score matching using nearest-neighbor method was used to match each patient of group 1 to a patient of group 2.

RESULTS

Before and after matching, the American Society of Anesthesiology score for patients in group 1 was significantly lower than in group 2 (score of 3: 9.9% vs. 25.9%, p<0.0001) as were grade I-II complications (27.7% vs. 45.4% p<0.001). Before and after matching, the quality of the mesorectum excision was significantly lower in group 1 (complete in 31% vs. 59.2% p<0.0001). After matching, 3-year overall survival for groups 1 and 2 were similar (88.2% vs. 92.6%; p=0.988).

CONCLUSION

ERAS and ISR had no negative impact on the oncological outcome of our patients and increased the preservation of bowel continuity.

Clinical efficacy of different approaches for laparoscopic intersphincteric resection of low rectal cancer: a comparison study

Background

The operative results of different approaches for the laparoscopic intersphincteric resection (LAISR) of low rectal cancer vary, and the patient characteristics associated with the best outcomes for each procedure have not been reported. We compared the efficacy of different approaches for LAISR of low rectal cancer and discussed the surgical indications for each approach.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed data from 235 patients with low rectal cancer treated via LAISR from October 2010 to September 2016. Patients underwent either the transabdominal approach for ISR (TAISR, n = 142), the transabdominal perineal approach for ISR (TPAISR, n = 57), or the transanal pull-through approach for ISR (PAISR, n = 36).

Results

The PAISR and TAISR groups exhibited shorter operation times and less intraoperative blood loss than the TPAISR group. The anastomotic distance was shorter in the PAISR and TPAISR groups than in the TAISR group. No differences in the ability to perform radical resection, overall complications, postoperative recovery, Wexner score recorded 12 months after ostomy closure, 3-year disease-free survival, local recurrence-free survival, distant metastasis-free survival, or overall survival (OS) were observed among the three groups.

Conclusions

TAISR, TPAISR, and PAISR have unique advantages and do not differ in terms of operation safety, patient outcomes, or anal function. TPAISR requires a longer time to complete and is associated with more bleeding and a slower recovery of anal function. PAISR should be considered when TAISR cannot ensure a negative distal margin and the tumor and BMI are relatively small; otherwise, TPAISR is required.

Long-term outcome after chronic anastomotic leakage following surgery for low rectal cancer

PURPOSE

This study analyzed the prevalence and factors influencing the history of chronic anastomotic leakage following low anterior resection for rectal cancer. Furthermore, the treatment of a persisting presacral sinus and the impact of stoma reversal on outcome were evaluated.

METHODS

The institutional database was scanned for all patients with anastomotic leakage, who were primarily treated for low rectal cancer between January 1995 and December 2019. Patients with rectovaginal and rectovesical fistula or an inadequate follow-up were excluded (n = 5). After applying the exclusion criteria, 71 patients remained for analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 39 patients out of 71 patients with anastomotic leakage (54.9%) developed a persisting presacral sinus. Neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy or chemotherapy showed a significant impact on the formation of a chronic anastomotic leakage (radiochemotherapy: p = 0.034; chemotherapy: p = 0.050), while initial surgical treatment showed no difference for anastomotic healing (p = 0.502), but a significantly better overall survival (p = 0.042). Multiple therapies and surgical revision had a negative impact on patients' rate of natural bowel continuity (p = 0.006/ < 0.001). In addition, the stoma reversal cohort showed improved overall 10-year survival (p = 0.004) and functional results (bowel continuity: p = 0.026; pain: p = 0.031).

CONCLUSION

Primary surgical therapy for chronic anastomotic leakage should consist of surgical treatment. Furthermore, the reversal of a protective stoma should be considered a viable option in treating chronic presacral sinus to improve pain symptoms and bowel continuity.

Robotic Intersphincteric Resection for Low Rectal Cancer: Technical Controversies and a Systematic Review on the Perioperative, Oncological, and Functional Outcomes

Intersphincteric resection (ISR) is the ultimate anus-sparing technique for low rectal cancer and is considered an oncologically safe alternative to abdominoperineal resection. The application of the robotic approach to ISR (RISR) has been described by few specialized surgical teams with several differences regarding approach and technique. This review aims to discuss the technical aspects of RISR by evaluating point by point each surgical controversy. Moreover, a systematic review was performed to report the perioperative, oncological, and functional outcomes of RISR. Postoperative morbidities after RISR are acceptable. RISR allows adequate surgical margins and adequate oncological outcomes. RISR may result in severe bowel and genitourinary dysfunction affecting the quality of life in a portion of patients.

Lateral lymph node dissection in advanced low rectal cancer treatment

Lateral lymph node (LLN) metastasis is a determinant of local recurrence in advanced low rectal cancer. Lateral lymph node dissection (LLND) is effective in removing metastatic lymph nodes, and has been shown to have a decreased local recurrence rate. However, because of its complexity and complications it induces, there is still tremendous controversy about its usage. Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) and total mesorectal excision (TME) are recommended as a conventional treatment for advanced rectal cancer. However, LLN metastasis and local recurrence still occur despite nCRT with TME. In Japan, TME with LLND is the standard surgical treatment for Stage II/III of advanced low rectal cancer. Before surgery, a proper evaluation of LLN status should be performed. Laparoscopic LLND and robotic-assisted LLND are useful for this. More research is necessary to improve the oncological outcomes of LLND. In this review, we retrospectively examine previous reports about LLND, aiming to emphasize its application prospects to improve patient survival and life quality.

Analysis of presacral tissue structure in LARS and the prevention of LARS by reconstruction of presacral mesorectum with pedicled greater omentum flap graft

BACKGROUND

The greater omentum has played a unique biological role in regenerative surgery. The aim of our study was to alter the anterior sacral structure by filling the anterior sacral space with the greater omentum and evaluate its effect on the low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) after total mesorectal excision (TME) surgery for low rectal cancer.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected clinical data of patients with primary low rectal cancer who underwent TME and ileostomy closure in our hospital from March 2018 to March 2020. Spearman correlation analysis was conducted to analyze the correlation between postoperative mesorectal fascia (MRF) thickness and LARS score. Subsequently, we prospectively used a tipped greater omental flap graft to reconstruct the anterior rectal sacral structures (MRF reconstruction) in 17 patients and compared LARS scores and rectal compliance (RC) at week 12 after closure of the ileostomy in both groups.

RESULTS

There were 47 patients with No-MRF reconstruction (31 males, mean age 60.68 ± 9.21 years) and 17 with MRF reconstruction (10 males, mean age 49.82 ± 14.74 years). Correlation analysis indicated that MRF thickness and RC were negatively correlated with LARS severity (p < 0.05). The LARS score of patients with MRF reconstruction at 12 weeks was significantly better than that of those with No-MRF reconstruction (32.97 ± 2.65 vs. 26.94 ± 1.52, p = 0.001), and the RC of MRF reconstruction were lower (2.80 ± 0.55 vs. 3.67 ± 0.38, p = 0.001). In addition, MRF reconstruction and No-MRF reconstruction have the similar incidence of postoperative complications (p = 0.156). No hemorrhage or necrosis of the greater omentum flap was observed in any of the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Greater omentum flap transplantation can significantly improve the symptoms of LARS at 12 weeks after ileostomy closure and we expect it to become a new surgical procedure for the treatment of low rectal cancer.

Distinctive features of small vessels on the mesorectal and parietal pelvic fascia as important landmarks in guiding precise inter-fascial dissection for low rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

The confinement of the pelvis and the complexity of pelvic fascial anatomy still pose difficulties in achieving good quality surgery for rectal cancer. We aimed to introduce small vessels on the mesorectal fascia and the parietal pelvic fascia as novel landmarks to aid in the identification of the inter-fascial dissection plane. Besides, the perioperative, survival, and functional outcomes of this surgical technique were reported.

METHODS

We first described that small vessels running on the mesorectal fascia and the parietal pelvic fascia showed distinctive features, which included (1) small vessels on the parietal fascia took the same orientation as the ureter or the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve; (2) small vessels on the mesorectal fascia were coursing cranially and medially on the anterolateral aspect, and medially and caudally on the posterolateral aspect; (3) small vessels on the mesorectal fascia became invisible at the interface between the pelvic wall and the mesorectal fascia. These features could be applied in fascial identification and separation. Then, we reported the outcomes of low rectal cancer surgery with small vessels-guided technique.

RESULTS

From 2013 to 2016, a consecutive series of 310 patients with low rectal cancer underwent laparoscopic total mesorectal excision with small vessels-guided technique. The positive rate of circumferential resection margin was 3.2%, and complete mesorectal excision was achieved in 97.8% (303/310) patients. The 3-year overall survival, disease-free survival, and local recurrence rates were 89.4%, 79.7%, and 2.6%, respectively. The urinary function was considered normal in 96.8% of patients, with a moderate dysfunction in 3.2% of patients. Besides, 29.5% of male patients occurred sexual function injury.

CONCLUSION

Distinctive features of small vessels on the parietal pelvic fascia and the mesorectal fascia can serve as novel and additive landmarks in guiding precise inter-fascial dissection for low rectal cancer.

The Significance of Lateral Lymph Node Metastasis in Low Rectal Cancer: a Propensity Score Matching Study

BACKGROUND

The indications for lateral lymph node dissection (LLND) in rectal cancer have been controversial. The purpose of this study was to clarify the significance of lateral lymph node metastasis in low rectal cancer.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study at a high-volume cancer center in Japan. In this study, 40 patients with pathologically positive LLN (LLN+) were matched with 175 negative (LLN-) patients by propensity score matching (PSM). COX regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors related to prognosis. The relapse-free survival rate (RFS) and overall survival rate (OS) of the 2 groups before and after matching were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of the 64 patients undergoing LLND, 40 (62.5%) patients had LLN+ disease. The LLN+ patients showed deeper infiltration of the primary tumor than the LLN- patients (T3-T4: 87.5% vs. 72.0%; p = 0.044), a greater number of metastatic lymph nodes (N2: 75.0% vs. 35.4%; p < 0.001), and a higher rate of local recurrence (30% vs. 9.1%; p < 0.001). Adjuvant chemotherapy was more common in the 40 LLN+ patients than in the 175 LLN- patients (70.0% vs. 46.8%; p = 0.008). After relapse, the rate of first-line chemotherapy administration for LLN+ patients was higher than that for the LLN- patients (62.5% vs. 29.5%; p = 0.005). The RFS of LLN+ patients was shorter than that of the LLN- patients (p = 0.005). After PSM, although more LLN+ patients received adjuvant chemotherapy than the LLN- patients (70.0% vs. 40.0%; p = 0.007), the local recurrence rate remained higher (30% vs. 10%; p = 0.025). The differences between RFS (p = 0.655) and OS rates (p = 0.164) of the 2 patient groups were not significant.

CONCLUSION

Even after LLND, patients with LLN+ low rectal cancer still showed an elevated local recurrence rate. Controlling local recurrence by adjuvant chemotherapy alone is difficult, and the additional strategic treatments are needed.

Local recurrences in western low rectal cancer patients treated with or without lateral lymph node dissection after neoadjuvant (chemo)radiotherapy: An international multi-centre comparative study

BACKGROUND

In the West, low rectal cancer patients with abnormal lateral lymph nodes (LLNs) are commonly treated with neoadjuvant (chemo)radiotherapy (nCRT) followed by total mesorectal excision (TME). Additionally, some perform a lateral lymph node dissection (LLND). To date, no comparative data (nCRT vs. nCRT + LLND) are available in Western patients.

METHODS

An international multi-centre cohort study was conducted at six centres from the Netherlands, US and Australia. Patients with low rectal cancers from the Netherlands and Australia with abnormal LLNs (≥5 mm short-axis in the obturator, internal iliac, external iliac and/or common iliac basin) who underwent nCRT and TME (LLND-group) were compared to similarly staged patients from the US who underwent a LLND in addition to nCRT and TME (LLND + group).

RESULTS

LLND + patients (n = 44) were younger with higher ASA-classifications and ypN-stages compared to LLND-patients (n = 115). LLND + patients had larger median LLNs short-axes and received more adjuvant chemotherapy (100 vs. 30%; p < 0.0001). Between groups, the local recurrence rate (LRR) was 3% for LLND + vs. 11% for LLND- (p = 0.13). Disease-free survival (DFS, p = 0.94) and overall survival (OS, p = 0.42) were similar. On multivariable analysis, LLND was an independent significant factor for local recurrences (p = 0.01). Sub-analysis of patients who underwent long-course nCRT and had adjuvant chemotherapy (LLND-n = 30, LLND + n = 44) demonstrated a lower LRR for LLND + patients (3% vs. 16% for LLND-; p = 0.04). DFS (p = 0.10) and OS (p = 0.11) were similar between groups.

CONCLUSION

A LLND in addition to nCRT may improve loco-regional control in Western patients with low rectal cancer and abnormal LLNs. Larger studies in Western patients are required to evaluate its contribution.

Therapeutic significance of D3 dissection for low rectal cancer: a comparison of dissections between the lateral pelvic lymph nodes and the lymph nodes along the root of the inferior mesenteric artery in a multicenter retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

D3 dissection is the standard treatment modality for locally advanced low rectal cancer in Japan. The benefit of lateral pelvic lymph node (LPLN) dissection (LPLND) and lymph nodes along the root of inferior mesenteric artery (253 LN) dissection (253 LND) for low rectal cancer has often been studied separately, and few studies have investigated their benefit in the same cohort. This study aimed to clarify the therapeutic significance of dissection of the LPLN in comparison to that of dissection of the 253 LN for low rectal cancer.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 3508 patients with treatment-naïve stage I-III low rectal cancer who underwent mesorectal excision between 1997 and 2012. They were identified from the Japanese Study Group for Postoperative Follow-Up of Colorectal Cancer database. The rates of metastasis, survival, and therapeutic value index (5-year overall survival (OS) rate multiplied by metastatic rate for lymph node metastasis) were compared between LPLN and 253 LN.

RESULTS

The rates of LPLN metastasis and 253 LN metastasis were 17.9% and 1.5%, respectively. The 5-year OS was significantly different between patients with and without LPLN metastasis (55.0% vs 85.5%, P < 0.0001) and between patients with and without 253 LN metastasis (36.2% vs 83.3%, P < 0.0001). The therapeutic value indexes of LPLN and 253 LN were 9.85 and 0.54, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

LPLND may have more therapeutic value than 253 LND for patients with treatment-naïve low rectal cancer, although both the patients with LPLN metastasis and those with 253 LN metastasis remained to have poor prognosis.

Neorectal Mucosal Prolapse After Intersphincteric Resection for Low-Lying Rectal Cancer: A Case Report

Radical resection for low rectal cancer is the mainstay among the treatment modalities. Intersphincteric resection (ISR) is considered a relatively new but effective surgical treatment for low-lying rectal tumor. As the sphincter preserving techniques get popularized, we notice uncommon complication associated with it in the form of rectal mucosal prolapse. We presented 2 rare cases that developed neorectal mucosa prolapse after ISR a complication following low rectal cancer surgery. Although ISR is a safe and effective surgical technique for low rectal cancer, it should be considered to correct modifiable possible risk factors. Also, Delorme procedure is good option for management of neorectal mucosal prolapse.

Real-world comparison of curative open, laparoscopic and robotic resections for sigmoid and rectal cancer-single center experience

There has been an increase in the utilization of robotic surgery in addition to traditional open or laparoscopic approaches. Aim of this study is to compare the short-term outcomes for open, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery for rectal and sigmoid cancer. One hundred and forty-seven patients (open n = 48, laparoscopic n = 49, robotic n = 50) undergoing curative resections by two surgeons between 2013 and 2020 were included. Data analyzed included patient demographics, tumor characteristics, length of stay, post-operative outcomes, and pathologic surrogates of oncologic results, including total mesorectal excision (TME) quality, circumferential resection margin (CRM) involvement and lymph node (LN) yield. Median age of population was 68 years (IQR 59-73), majority (68%) were males. Median distance from anal verge in the robotic surgery group was 8 cm, compared to 15 and 14.5 cm in the open and laparoscopic groups, respectively, p = 0.029, (laparoscopic vs robotic, p = 0.005 and open vs robotic, p = 0.027). Proportion of patients who received neoadjuvant radiotherapy in robotic surgery group was higher, p = 0.04. In sub-group of tumors between 3 and 7 cm from anal verge more patients in the robotic surgery group had sphincter preservation, p = 0.006. Length of stay, maximum C-reactive protein, and white blood cell rise favored minimally invasive approaches compared to open surgery. There were no differences in post-operative complications, lymph node yield or CRM positivity rate between the three groups. Robotic surgery approach is safe and allows sphincter preservation without compromising TME quality in rectal cancer surgery.

Colonic pouch confers better bowel function and similar postoperative outcomes compared to straight anastomosis for low rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

With advancements in laparoscopic technology and the wide application of linear staplers, sphincter-saving procedures are increasingly performed for low rectal cancer. However, sphincter-saving procedures have led to the emergence of a unique clinical disorder termed anterior rectal resection syndrome. Colonic pouch anastomosis improves the quality of life of patients with rectal cancer > 7 cm from the anal margin. But whether colonic pouch anastomosis can reduce the incidence of rectal resection syndrome in patients with low rectal cancer is unknown.

AIM

To compare postoperative and oncological outcomes and bowel function of straight and colonic pouch anal anastomoses after resection of low rectal cancer.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study of 72 patients with low rectal cancer who underwent sphincter-saving procedures with either straight or colonic pouch anastomoses. Functional evaluations were completed preoperatively and at 1, 6, and 12 mo postoperatively. We also compared perioperative and oncological outcomes between two groups that had undergone low or ultralow anterior rectal resection.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in mean operating time, blood loss, time to first passage of flatus and excrement, and duration of hospital stay between the colonic pouch and straight anastomosis groups. The incidence of anastomotic leakage following colonic pouch construction was lower (11.4% vs 16.2%) but not significantly different than that of straight anastomosis. Patients with colonic pouch construction had lower postoperative low anterior resection syndrome scores than the straight anastomosis group, suggesting better bowel function (preoperative: 4.71 vs 3.89, P = 0.43; 1 mo after surgery: 34.2 vs 34.7, P = 0.59; 6 mo after surgery: 22.70 vs 29.0, P < 0.05; 12 mo after surgery: 15.5 vs 19.5, P = 0.01). The overall recurrence and metastasis rates were similar (4.3% and 11.4%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Colonic pouch anastomosis is a safe and effective procedure for colorectal reconstruction after low and ultralow rectal resections. Moreover, colonic pouch construction may provide better functional outcomes compared to straight anastomosis.

Critical surgical errors by junior fellows and trainees in low rectal cancer surgery: How to overcome?(A cross-sectional study)

Aim

Technical difficulties are usually reported in low rectal cancer (LRC) surgery. Moreover inadvertent surgical errors could happen mostly due to lack of experience of the assisting surgeons. Unfortunately, these errors may end up with raising a permanent stoma. In this study we are reporting seven inadvertent surgical mishaps during surgeries for LRC which resulted in failure of the planned circular end to end anastomosis and how we approached them by different salvage techniques.

Patients and methods

All surgical mistakes were salvaged by two of our senior consultants with intraoperative decision to shift to another approach to attain intestinal continuity. Two patients had direct handswen coloanal anastomosis, three received colon pull through and two with redo stapled circular end to end anastomosis after shifting to the anterior perineal plane. Postoperative assessment of the functional state using wexner score was done for all cases.

Results

All surgical mistakes had been overcomed after shifting to the transanal and/or perineal approach and we were able to regain intestinal continuity in all cases Circumferential and distal margins were free in all specimens. Two patients showed optimal continence with wexner score 3,5 respectively, Two had suboptimal continence Wexner 6,7. Female patient with iatrogenic rectovaginal fistula suffered from poor quality of life and asked for permanent stoma.

Conclusion

All trainees and junior fellows in should receive a clearly defined training program and focused education with different staplers; additionally they should work under supervision of the senior consultants who should be sufficiently experienced with different salvage approaches.

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Low rectal cancer surgery is demanding even in the hands of experienced colorectal surgeons.

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Inadvertent surgical errors could happen due to lack of experience of the assisting surgeons.

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Salvage procedures may be the key to restore intestinal continuity.

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All trainees and junior fellows in colorectal units should receive a clearly defined training programs.

Enhanced recovery after surgery nursing program, a protective factor for stoma-related complications in patients with low rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the association between enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) nursing program and stoma-related complications (SRCs) and prognosis in patients with low rectal cancer (LRC) undergoing abdominoperineal resection with sigmoidostomy.

METHODS

LRC patients who underwent elective abdominoperineal resection with sigmoidostomy between May 2016 and May 2019 were retrospectively enrolled. The occurrence of early major or minor SRCs (within postoperative 30 days) was set as the primary end-point. Clinicopathological variables and laboratory tests were compared between patients with or without SRCs. The univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate risk factors for SRCs. Hospitalization satisfaction-related and prognosis-related variables were compared between LRC patients with or without ERAS nursing program.

RESULTS

A total of 288 patients were enrolled and the incidence of SRCs was 26.7% (77/288). ERAS nursing program was the only independent risk factor for SRCs in LRC patients (OR 2.04, 95%CI 1.31-3.12, P = 0.016) by the multivariate logistic regression analysis. Moreover, ERAS nursing program was associated with higher hospitalization satisfaction rate, faster bowel function recovery, better psychological status, and higher quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

ERAS nursing program was a protective factor for SRCs and associated with improved prognosis in LRC patients undergoing elective abdominoperineal resection with sigmoidostomy.

Gender aspects of survival after abdominoperineal resection for low rectal cancer: a retrospective study

PURPOSE

The difference in prognosis between genders after abdominoperineal resection (APR) for low rectal cancer (LRC) is unclear. This study aimed to compare survival outcomes between genders in patients with LRC who underwent curative APR.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study used a database of consecutive colorectal resections. Patients who received curative APR with LRC were grouped according to their gender. Female patients were frequency-matched 1:1 on American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage to male patients. Overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and their independent risk factors were examined.

RESULTS

A total of 140 patients with APR for LRC were included after matching: 70 (50.0%) males and 70 (50.0%) females. No significant differences were found between the groups in terms of age, operation methods, AJCC stage, and adjuvant therapy (all P > 0.05). Median follow-up was 39 (range: 3-128) months. Male gender was independently associated with worse OS (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 2.755, 95% CI: 1.507-5.038, P = 0.001) and worse DFS (adjusted HR = 2.440, 95% CI: 1.254-4.746, P = 0.009). Subgroup analysis revealed that female patients with stage III disease had better OS (P = 0.001) and DFS (P < 0.001) than male patients.

CONCLUSION

Gender affects survival after a curative APR for LRC. Compared with females, male patients with LRC after curative APR had worse prognosis, especially for stage III disease.

Lateral pelvic lymph node dissection in the management of locally advanced low rectal cancer: Summary of the current evidence

Lateral pelvic lymph nodes (LPLN) are a major site for local recurrence following curative resection for low locally advanced rectal cancer. Ongoing advances in imaging techniques have improved predicting LPLN metastasis (LPLNM) during pre-operative staging. However, there is ongoing debate on optimal management of this subgroup of patients with variation between guidance of different societies. In Japan, LPLNM is considered as local disease and addressed by lateral pelvic node dissection (LPLND) in addition to total mesorectal excision (TME). However, in the west, LPLNM is considered as metastatic disease and those patients are offered neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) followed by TME surgery. The potential surgical risks and morbidity associated with LPLND as well as the uncertainty of the oncological outcome have raised the concern that patients with locally advanced low rectal cancer with LPLNM could be over or under-treated. A comprehensive review of literature was performed, summarizing the current evidence on available modalities for predicting LPLNM, the role of LPLND in the management of advanced low rectal cancer and the available surgical approaches with their impact on surgical and oncological outcomes. LPLND is associated with increased operative time, blood loss and post-operative morbidity. The potential benefits for local disease control and survival still awaits high quality studies. There has been increasing number of reports of the use minimally invasive approaches in LPLND in an attempt to reduce post-operative complications. There is need for high quality evidence to define the role of LPLND in management of patients with advanced low rectal cancer.

Clinical outcomes of transanal total mesorectal excision using a lateral-first approach for low rectal cancer: a propensity score matching analysis

BACKGROUND

Although transanal total mesorectal excision (ta-TME) is adopted for rectal cancer surgery by an increasing number of surgeons, it is still technically challenging. We have employed a lateral-first approach for ta-TME to overcome technical difficulties. However, its outcomes and advantage over conventional laparoscopic TME remain unclear.

METHODS

Thirty-five consecutive patients who underwent ta-TME using a lateral-first approach (the ta-TME group) and 53 consecutive patients who underwent conventional laparoscopic TME (the lap-TME group) for low rectal cancer were included. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to create balanced cohorts of ta-TME (n = 28) and lap-TME (n = 28). Their clinical outcomes were compared after PSM.

RESULTS

The operative time and intraoperative blood loss were significantly lower in the ta-TME group than in the lap-TME group (P = 0.042 and P < 0.001, respectively). Postoperative complications ≥ Clavien-Dindo grade II were significantly less and postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter in the ta-TME group (35.7% vs. 78.6%, P = 0.003, and 18 days vs. 32 days, P < 0.001, respectively). The distal margin was significantly larger in the ta-TME when excluding the abdominoperineal resection cases (20 mm vs. 10 mm, P = 0.032). The positive radial margin was observed in 2 of 28 patients (7.1%) in the ta-TME group.

CONCLUSIONS

Ta-TME using a lateral-first approach is feasible and may offer several advantages over lap-TME in terms of short-term outcomes. It might be an alternative safe approach for ta-TME. To confirm the oncological superiority of this surgery, further study in a larger population and for a longer follow-up period is warranted.

Influence of tumor location on short- and long-term outcomes after laparoscopic surgery for rectal cancer: a propensity score matched cohort study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the short- and long-term outcomes after laparoscopic resection for low rectal cancer (LRC) compared with mid/high rectal cancer (M/HRC).

METHODS

Patients with rectal cancer undergoing laparoscopic resection with curative intent were retrospectively reviewed between 2009 and 2015. After matched 1:1 by using propensity score analysis, perioperative and oncological outcomes were compared between LRC and M/HRC groups. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify independent factors of overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS).

RESULTS

Of 373 patients who met the criteria for inclusion, 198 patients were matched for the analysis. Laparoscopic surgery for LRC required longer operative time (P<0.001) and more blood loss volume (P = 0.015) compared with M/HRC, and the LRC group tended to have a higher incidence of postoperative complications (16.2% vs. 8.1%, P = 0.082). There was no significant difference in local recurrence between the two groups (9.1% vs. 4.0%, P = 0.251), whereas distant metastasis was inclined to be more frequent in LRC patients compared with M/HRC (21.2% vs. 12.1%, P = 0.086). The LRC group showed significantly inferior 5-year OS (77.0% vs. 86.4%, P = 0.033) and DFS (71.2% vs. 86.2%, P = 0.017) compared with the M/HRC group. Multivariate analysis indicated that tumor location was an independent predictor of DFS (HR = 2.305, 95% CI 1.203-4.417, P = 0.012).

CONCLUSION

Tumor location of the rectal cancer significantly affected the clinical and oncological outcomes after laparoscopic surgery, and it was an independent predictor of DFS.

Preoperative chemoradiotherapy versus surgery alone for advanced low rectal cancer: a large multicenter cohort study in Japan

PURPOSE

To clarify the usefulness of chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for low rectal cancer, we investigated the current status of CRT in Japan and its short- and long-term outcomes versus surgery alone for low rectal cancer in a large multicenter cohort study.

METHODS

Between January 2010 and December 2011, data from 1608 patients with clinical Stage II-III rectal adenocarcinoma were collected from 69 specialized centers. Of these 1608 patients, 923 were diagnosed with clinical stage III low rectal cancer, 838 were enrolled in this study, divided into the surgery-alone group (n = 649) and preoperative CRT group (n = 189), and analyzed.

RESULTS

The following parameters were significantly lower in the CRT versus surgery-alone group: blood loss (210 vs. 431.5 mL), postoperative complications (27.5% vs 39.0%), and the incidence of anastomotic leakage (3.7% vs. 8.8%). The 3-year overall survival, relapse-free and local recurrence-free survival rates did not between the two groups to a statistically significant extent (91.2% vs. 87.4%, 68.8% vs. 66.4%, and 88.2% vs. 88.4%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study revealed the current status of CRT for low rectal cancer in Japan. The results showed that CRT could be safely performed for advanced low rectal cancer in comparison to surgery alone.

Comparison of short-term efficacy of transanal total mesorectal excision and laparoscopic total mesorectal excision in low rectal cancer

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

The transanal total mesorectal excision(TaTME) of rectal malignancies is largely referred to as treatment of mid to low, especially low rectal cancer. This study was to compare the short-term efficacy of TaTME and laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (LaTME) for low rectal cancer.

METHODS

A prospective study of patients with low rectal cancer who underwent laparoscopic radical surgery at the General Surgery of Guangzhou Red Cross Hospital from January 2017 to December 2019 was performed. The general information, perioperative results and pathological results of the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 64 patients were included in the study, 32 in the TaTME group and 32 in the LaTME group. The clinical characteristics of the two groups was comparable (P > 0.05). The operation time in the TaTME group was longer than that in the LaTME group (212.59 ± 28.71min vs 187.66 ± 27.15min, P = 0.001), no significant differences were seen in the conversion rate, intraoperative complications, morbidity, serious morbidity, anastomotic leak, unplanned reoperation and hospital stay(P > 0.05). The circumferential resection margin (CRM) distance in the TaTME group was longer than that in the LaTME group (6.81 ± 2.99 mm vs 5.21 ± 3.06 mm, P = 0.039). The inter-group difference in terms of harvested lymph nodes, mesorectum integrity, CRM involvement, DRM distance, R1 resection, complete remission, pathological T stage, pathological N stage and pathological TNM stage was not significant (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

TaTME is a promising surgical technique and maybe offers a safe and feasible alternative to LaTME in managing low rectal cancer.

Clinical parameters predictive for sphincter-preserving surgery and prognostic outcome in patients with locally advanced low rectal cancer

Background

Although controversial, there are data suggesting that clinical parameters can predict the probability of sphincter preserving procedures in rectal cancer. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between clinical parameters and the sphincter-preserving surgery rate in patients who had undergone neoadjuvant combination therapy for advanced low rectal cancer.

Methods

In this single center study, the charts of 540 patients with locally advanced rectal cancer who had been treated with induction chemotherapy-and/or neoadjuvant concomitant radiochemotherapy (nRCT) over an 11-year period were reviewed in order to identify patients with rectal cancer ≤6 cm from the anal verge, who had received the prescribed nRCT only. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify pretreatment patient- and tumor associated parameters correlating with sphincter preservation. Survival rates were calculated using Kaplan-Meier analyses.

Results

Two hundred eighty of the 540 patients met the selection criteria. Of the 280 patients included in the study, 158 (56.4%) underwent sphincter-preserving surgery. One hundred sixty-four of 280 patients (58.6%) had a downsizing of the primary tumor (ypT < cT) and 39 (23.8%) of these showed a complete histopathological response (ypT0 ypN0). In univariate analysis, age prior to treatment, Karnofsky performance status, clinical T-size, relative lymphocyte value, CRP value, and interval between nRCT and surgery, were significantly associated with sphincter-preserving surgery. In multivariate analysis, age (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.05, CI95%: 1.02–1.09, p = 0.003), relative lymphocyte value (HR = 0.94, CI95%: 0.89–0.99, p = 0.029), and interval between nRCT and surgery (HR = 2.39, CI95%: 1.17–4.88, p = 0.016) remained as independent predictive parameters.

Conclusions

These clinical parameters can be considered in the prognostication of sphincter-preserving surgery in case of low rectal adenocarcinoma. More future research is required in this area.

Clinical application of self-closing ileostomy in anus-preserving surgery for low rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Anus-sparing surgery for low rectal cancer is becoming more and more common in clinical practice. Ileostomy is a common auxiliary technology for rectal cancer surgery. However, traditional ileostomy is traumatic. After the intestinal function is restored, the stoma needs to be closed again. And the cost is high, so research on the new self-closing ileostomy is of great significance.

AIM

To observe the clinical effects of self-closing ileostomy in anus-preserving surgery for low rectal cancer.

METHODS

A total of 120 patients who underwent anus-preserving surgery for low rectal cancer at our hospital were selected from July 2016 to July 2018. The patients were divided into either a control group or an observation group using a random number: table. The control group underwent conventional protective ileostomy during the operation, and the observation group underwent self-closing ileostomy. Surgical indicators, complications, and quality of life were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, the observation group had shorter duration of colostomy (26.59 d ± 3.81 d) and length of hospitalization (12.01 d ± 3.56 d), and fewer times of pocket replacement (1.09 times/wk ± 0.30 times/wk) (P < 0.05). The rate of complications in the observation group (6.67%) was significantly lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The scores of physical function (92.41 points ± 10.21 points), physical role physical (76.82 points ± 14.15 points), and bodily pain (90.11 points ± 10.63 points) in the observation group after operation were significantly better than those of the control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The application of self-closing ileostomy in anus-preserving surgery for low rectal cancer can protect the anastomotic site, reduce stoma complications, shorten the duration of ileostomy, and reduce the number of pocket changes.

Short-term outcomes of laparoscopic intersphincteric resection with intraoperative radiotherapy using low-energy X-rays for primary locally advanced low rectal cancer: a single center experience

Background

Even with the augmentative application of anal-preservation surgery in low rectal cancer, the role and indications of laparoscopic intersphincteric resection (Lap ISR) are still under debate, especially for T3 or node-positive (T3N0M0, T1–3N+M0) cancer, mainly due to the oncological safety and functional outcomes. INTRABEAM (Carl Zeiss, Germany) intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) using low-energy X-rays features in accurate irradiation, less exposure, and reduced complications. Taking advantages of Lap ISR and INTRABEAM IORT, this innovative approach aims to increase the probability of the anal preservation with acceptable postoperative outcomes.

Materials and methods

From December 2015 to August 2019, we retrospectively analyzed the short-term outcomes of 12 patients evaluated preoperatively with T3 or node-positive (T3N0M0, T1–3N+M0) primary locally advanced low rectal cancer. They all had received Lap ISR and INTRABEAM IORT with a dose of 16–18 Gy applied by an applicator through the anus (natural orifice). Then, with no pre- or postoperative radiotherapy given, the patients were suggested to receive 6–8 cycles of the XELOX chemotherapy regimen (oxaliplatin, 130 mg/m² and capecitabine, 1000 mg/m²).

Results

All patients achieved R0 resection. The median radiation time was 27 min and 15 s, and the mean radiative dose was 17.3 Gy (range 16–18 Gy). The median follow-up time was 18.5 months (range 3–45 months). Two patients experienced local recurrence. Two male patients experienced anastomotic stenosis. Furthermore, one of them experienced perianal abscess and the other one experienced pulmonary metastasis after refusing to receive chemotherapy. One female patient with internal anal sphincter invasion experienced distant metastases to the liver and gluteus maximus muscle 35 months after IORT. No acute radiation injuries or symptoms were observed. Although they experienced a reduction in anal function, every patient was satisfied with the postoperative outcomes.

Conclusions

For patients evaluated preoperatively with T3 or node-positive (T3N0M0, T1–3N+M0) primary locally advanced low rectal cancer, Lap ISR with INTRABEAM IORT may be a safe and feasible approach for anal preservation without compromising oncological outcomes.

Preoperative incremental maximum squeeze pressure as a predictor of fecal incontinence after very low anterior resection for low rectal cancer

PURPOSE

Very low anterior resection (VLAR) is performed widely, but some patients are left with fecal incontinence (FI), which compromises their quality of life (QOL) severely. This study sought to identify the predictive factors of postoperative FI after VLAR, which remain unclear.

METHODS

We evaluated the anorectal manometry data of patients who underwent VLAR to identify the risk factors for postoperative FI among the various clinicopathological factors and manometric characteristics. FI and QOL were analyzed using the Wexner score and EORTC QLQ-C30, respectively.

RESULTS

The subjects of this study were 40 patients who underwent VLAR for low rectal cancer between April, 2015 and May, 2018. There were 11 (27%) patients in the major-FI group and 29 (73%) in the minor-FI group. Multivariate analysis revealed that low preoperative incremental maximum squeeze pressure (iMSP) was an independent risk factor for postoperative major-FI. Postoperative QOL tended to be worse in the major-FI group.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative low iMSP increases the risk of major-FI and impaired QOL after VLAR. This highlights the importance of performing preoperative anorectal manometry to evaluate the patient's anal function as well as to select the most appropriate operative procedure and early multifaceted treatment such as medication, rehabilitation, and biofeedback for postoperative FI.

Photodynamic therapy as salvage therapy for residual microscopic cancer after ultra-low anterior resection: A case report

BACKGROUND

The rate of positive resection margins (R1) in patients with low rectal cancer is substantial. Recommended remedies such as extended resection or chemoradiotherapy have their own serious drawbacks. It has been reported that photodynamic therapy (PDT) as a remedial treatment for esophageal cancer. Colorectal cancer and esophageal cancer has many similarities, however, PDT as a salvage therapy for rectal cancer is rare.

CASE SUMMARY

Here, we describe a 56-year-old man who was admitted to the hospital due to a 6-mo history of hemafecia, which had been aggravated for 1 mo. Colonoscopy revealed a 3 × 4 cm ulcerated mass in the rectum 4 cm from the anus. Preoperative pathological examination showed villous adenoma, moderate-to-high-grade dysplasia, good differentiation, and invasion of the mucosal muscle. The patient had R1 after ultra-low anterior resection, but he refused extended resection and experienced severe liver function impairment after 3 cycles of chemotherapy. Ultimately, the patient underwent PDT to remove R1. After five years of follow-up, there was no liver function impairment, recurrence, metastasis, sexual dysfunction, or abnormal defecation function.

CONCLUSION

This is the first case worldwide in which R1 of rectal cancer were successfully treated by PDT.

The effect of increased body mass index values on surgical outcomes after radical resection for low rectal cancer

PURPOSES

This study aimed to explore the effect of increased body mass index (BMI) values (overweight: BMI ≥ 25-30 kg/m²; obese: BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²) on surgical outcomes after radical resection for low rectal cancer (LRC).

METHODS

Patients with LRC who underwent radical surgery from January 2009 to December 2013 were included. The patients were divided into three groups according to their BMI values (control group: BMI < 25 kg/m²; overweight group: BMI 25 to < 30 kg/m²; obese group: BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²). The patients' clinicopathological characteristics and survival data were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 792 patients were enrolled in this study finally (control, n = 624; overweight, n = 147; obese, n = 21). The baseline characteristics of the three groups were similar. We found that an increased BMI was associated with a longer operative time (P < 0.001) and length of postoperative hospital stay (P = 0.032). Patients with increased BMI values had a significantly higher incidence of postoperative complications, including pulmonary infection (P = 0.008), anastomotic leakage (P = 0.029), allergy (P = 0.017) and incisional hernia (P = 0.045). The limited data showed that the pathological outcomes of the three groups did not differ to a statistically significant extent. A multivariate analysis showed that increased BMI was not associated with poorer OS or DFS.

CONCLUSION

In LRC resection, an increased BMI was associated with a longer operative time, postoperative hospital stay, and an increased number of postoperative complications. However, it did not contribute to poorer pathological or survival outcomes.

Can MR imaging be useful in differentiating low rectal cancer from anal cancer?

PURPOSE

To evaluate the role of pelvic MR imaging in differentiating between low rectal and anal cancers using the pathological results as the gold standard.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, retrospective analysis of 100 patients with a history of low rectal (n = 50) or anal (n = 50) cancers who underwent staging pelvic MR imaging before treatment was performed. The following parameters were analyzed: distance from the anal verge to the tumor, percentage of tumor above puborectalis muscle, tumor size, T2W signal intensity, sphincter/levator muscles invasion, organ invasion, and MRI diagnosis. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to determine factors associated with low rectal and anal cancers. Distances from the anal verge to the tumor were compared using receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

RESULTS

From the ROC curves, the cut-off value for the distance from the anal verge to the tumor in differentiating between low rectal and anal cancers was 2.1 cm and the area under the ROC curve was 0.90 (95% CI 0.84-0.97). Multivariate logistic regression revealed three significant factors in differentiating between low rectal and anal cancers, including T2 mixed hyper- and hyposignal intensity (OR 66.00, 95% CI 4.66-934.81), distance cut-off value (OR 34.72, 95% CI 5.73-210.27), and absence of sphincter invasion (OR 18.75, 95% CI 1.91-183.96), with sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of 98%, 88%, 89%, and 97%, respectively, and diagnostic accuracy increased from 79% (reader 1) and 82% (reader 2) to 93%.

CONCLUSION

MR imaging can be useful to differentiating between low rectal and anal cancers which benefits staging and treatment planning.

Short-term efficacy of natural orifice specimen extraction surgery for low rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

This case-control study compared the short-term clinical efficacy of natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) using a prolapsing technique and the conventional laparoscopic-assisted approach for low rectal cancer.

AIM

To further explore the application value of the transanal placement of the anvil and to evaluate the short-term efficacy of NOSES for resecting specimens of low rectal cancer, as well as to provide a theoretical basis for its extensive clinical application.

METHODS

From June 2015 to June 2018, 108 consecutive laparoscopic-assisted low rectal cancer resections were performed at our center. Among them, 26 specimens were resected transanally using a prolapsing technique (NOSES), and 82 specimens were resected through a conventional abdominal wall small incision (LAP). A propensity score matching method was used to select 26 pairs of matched patients, and their perioperative data were analyzed.

RESULTS

The baseline data were comparable between the two matched groups. All 52 patients underwent the surgery successfully. The operative time, blood loss, number of harvested lymph nodes, postoperative complication rate, circumferential margin involvement, postoperative follow-up data, and postoperative anal function were not statistically significant. The NOSES group had shorter time to gastrointestinal function recovery (2.6 ± 1.0 d vs 3.4 ± 0.9 d, P = 0.006), shorter postoperative hospital stay (7.1 ± 1.7 d vs 8.3 ± 1.1 d, P = 0.003), lower pain score (day 1: 2.7 ± 1.8 vs 4.6 ± 1.9, day 3: 2.0 ± 1.1 vs 4.1 ± 1.2, day 5: 1.7 ± 0.9 vs 3.3 ± 1.0, P < 0.001), a lower rate of additional analgesic use (11.5% vs 61.5%, P = 0.001), and a higher satisfaction rate in terms of the aesthetic appearance of the abdominal wall after surgery (100% vs 23.1%, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

NOSES for low rectal cancer can achieve satisfactory short-term efficacy and has advantages in reducing postoperative pain, shortening the length of postoperative hospital stay, and improving patients’ satisfaction in terms of a more aesthetic appearance of the abdominal wall.

Long-term results of intersphincteric resection for low rectal cancer in Japan

Intersphincteric resection (ISR) is the ultimate sphincter-preserving procedure for low rectal cancer. A questionnaire about the standardization of ISR was given to 2125 patients who underwent curative ISR for low rectal cancer between 2005 and 2012 at 127 affiliated institutions of the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum (JSCCR), and the results were compared with the results of a systematic review. The findings revealed that although mortality and morbidity were relatively low and the survival rate after ISR was good, the rates of local recurrence and postoperative fecal incontinence were relatively high. The radicality of ISR was compared with that of abdominoperineal resection and low anterior resection using the propensity score matching prognosis analysis of patients in the JSCCR nationwide registry. The local recurrence rate was significantly higher after ISR, and especially high in patients with T3 (invasion into the external anal sphincter) and T4 disease. These results provide evidence about the factors related to fecal incontinence after ISR. As measures for the standardization of ISR, it is important to reconfirm that ISR is not indicated for patients with cT3 and cT4 disease and those with poor preoperative defecatory function, based on the ISR indication criteria.

Progress in prevention and treatment of anastomotic leakage after surgery for rectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world, and its morbidity and mortality both rank third among all malignant tumors in China. Rectal cancer accounts for 60%-70% of cases of CRC. With the in-depth study of the pathogenesis of CRC and the mechanism of tumor metastasis, and the improvement of surgical techniques and methods, anal sphincter surgery for middle and low rectal cancer is increasing gradually. Although the quality of life of the patients improves significantly after anal sphincter preservation for rectal cancer, anastomotic leakage is still one of the most common and serious complications. Studies show that the incidence of anastomotic leakage after surgery for low rectal cancer is 3%-21%, and the death rate is up to 3%. Therefore, a comprehensive assessment of patients and analysis of risk factors before operation is of great significant for reducing the potential risk of anastomotic leakage and choosing surgical approach and appropriate preventive measures to prevent and reduce the occurrence of anastomotic leakage. In this paper, we summarize the recent research on anastomotic leakage after rectal cancer surgery in order to help other clinicians reduce the incidence of anastomotic leakage in clinical practice.

Anatomical basis for the choice of laparoscopic surgery for low rectal cancer through the pelvic imaging data-a cohort study

Background

Low rectal cancer surgery without anus conservation needs permanent ileostomy or colostomy which seriously affects the quality of life of patients. Therefore, low rectal cancer surgery not only pays attention to the safety of surgical treatment but also to the anus conservation.

Methods

Sixty-seven patients suffering from low rectal cancer had undergone laparoscopic surgery which was analyzed through retrospective study. They were divided into the anus-conserving and non-anus-conserving groups. Thirty-five set of pelvic data was obtained from the preoperative CT and MRI images. After that, the discriminant function was obtained to predict the surgery methods for patients with low rectal carcinoma.

Results

Anal-conserving group discriminant function (F1) = − 33.698 + 6.045 × anal margin distance (cm) + 1.105 × T4; non-anus-conserving group discriminant function (F2) = − 14.125 + 3.138 × anal margin distance (cm) + 0.804 × T4. If F1 is greater than F2, then the case can be treated as the anus reservation while if F2 is greater than F1 the case cannot be treated anus reservation. The accuracy of the discriminant function was evaluated which was found to be 97%.

Conclusion

The discriminant function of pelvic data provides anatomical basis for the choice of surgical methods for low rectal cancer.

Critical and Challenging Issues in the Surgical Management of Low-Lying Rectal Cancer

Despite innovative advancements, the management of distally located rectal cancer (RC) remains a formidable endeavor. The critical location of the tumor predisposes it to a circumferential resection margin that tends to involve the sphincters and surrounding organs, pelvic lymph node metastasis, and anastomotic complications. In this regard, colorectal surgeons should be aware of issues beyond the performance of total mesorectal excision (TME). For decades, abdominoperineal resection had been the standard of care for low-lying RC; however, its association with high rates of tumor recurrence, tumor perforation, and poorer survival has stimulated the development of novel surgical techniques and modifications, such as extralevator abdominoperineal excision. Similarly, difficult dissections and poor visualization, especially in obese patients with low-lying tumors, have led to the development of transanal TME or the "bottom-to-up" approach. Additionally, while neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy has allowed for the execution of more sphincter-saving procedures without oncologic compromise, functional outcomes remain an issue. Nevertheless, neoadjuvant treatment can lead to significant tumor regression and complete pathological response, permitting the utilization of organ-preserving strategies. At present, an East and West dualism pervades the management of lateral lymph node metastasis, thereby calling for a more global and united approach. Moreover, with the increasing importance of quality of life, a tailored, individualized treatment approach is of utmost importance when taking into account oncologic and anticipated functional outcomes.