NOTES transanal rectal cancer resection using transanal endoscopic microsurgery and laparoscopic assistance

Background  

The feasibility and safety of Natural Orifice Translumenal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES) transanal endoscopic rectosigmoid resection using transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) was previously demonstrated in human cadavers and a porcine survival model. We report the first clinical case of a NOTES transanal resection for rectal cancer using TEM and laparoscopic assistance, performed by a team of surgeons from Barcelona and Boston with extensive experience with NOTES and minimally invasive approaches to colorectal diseases.     

Current experience and future directions of completely NOTES colorectal resection

Clinical implementation and widespread application of natural orifice translumenal surgery (NOTES) has been limited by the lack of specialized endoscopic equipment, which has prevented the ability to perform complex procedures including colorectal resections. Relative to other types of translumenal access, transanal NOTES using transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) provides a stable platform for endolumenal and direct translumenal access to the peritoneal cavity, and specifically to the colon and rectum. Completely NOTES transanal rectosigmoid resection using TEM, with or without transgastric endoscopic assistance, was demonstrated to be feasible and safe in a swine survival model. The same technique was successfully replicated in human cadavers using commercially available TEM, with endoscopic and laparoscopic instrumentation. This approach also permitted complete rectal mobilization with total mesorectal excision to be performed completely transanally. As in the swine model, transgastric and/or transanal endoscopic assistance extended the length of proximal colon mobilized and overcame some of the difficulties with TEM dissection including limited endoscopic visualization and maladapted instrumentation. This extensive laboratory experience with NOTES transanal rectosigmoid resection served as the basis for the first human NOTES transanal rectal cancer excision using TEM and laparoscopic assistance. Based on this early clinical experience, NOTES transanal approach using TEM holds significant promise as a safe and substantially less morbid alternative to conventional colorectal resection in the management of benign and malignant colorectal diseases. Careful patient selection and substantial improvement in NOTES instrumentation are critical to optimize this approach prior to widespread clinical application, and may ultimately permit completely NOTES transanal colorectal resection.     

Survival study of natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery for rectosigmoid resection using transanal endoscopic microsurgery with or without transgastric endoscopic assistance in a swine model

Background

The feasibility of transanal rectosigmoid resection with transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) was previously demonstrated in a swine nonsurvival model in which transgastric endoscopic assistance also was shown to extend the length of colon mobilized transanally.

Methods

A 2-week survival study evaluating transanal endoscopic rectosigmoid resection with stapled colorectal anastomosis was conducted with swine using the transanal approach alone (TEM group, n = 10) or a transanal approach combined with transgastric endoscopic assistance (TEM + TG group, n = 10). Gastrotomies were created using a needleknife and balloon dilation, then closed using prototype T-tags. Outcomes were evaluated and compared between the groups using Student’s t-test and Fisher’s exact test.

Results

Relative to the TEM group, the average length of rectosigmoid mobilized in the TEM + TG group was 15.6 versus 10.5 cm (p < 0.0005), the length of the resected specimen was 9 versus 6.2 cm (p < 0.0005), and the mean operative time was 254.5 versus 97.5 min (p < 0.0005). Intraoperatively, no organ injury or major bleeding was noted. Two T-tag misfires occurred during gastrotomy closure and four small staple line defects requiring transanal repair including one in the TEM group and three in the TEM + TG group (p = 0.2). Postoperatively, there was no mortality, and the animals gained an average of 3.4 lb. Two major complications (10%) were identified at necropsy in the TEM + TG group including an intraabdominal abscess and an abdominal wall hematoma related to T-tag misfire. Gastrotomy closure sites and colorectal anastomoses were all grossly healed, with adhesions noted in 60 and 70% and microabscesses in 50 and 20% of the gastrotomy sites and colorectal anastomoses, respectively.

Conclusions

Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) for rectosigmoid resection using TEM with or without transgastric endoscopic assistance is feasible and associated with low morbidity in a porcine survival model. Transgastric assistance significantly prolongs the operative time but extends the length of the rectosigmoid mobilized transanally, with a nonsignificant increase in complication rates related to gastrotomy creation.     

Feasibility of radical sigmoid colectomy performed as natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) using transanal endoscopic microsurgery

Background Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES), a recent development in the field of minimally invasive surgery, may offer advantages over open and laparoscopic surgery. Most investigations to date have focused on small end-organ resections, and none have described en bloc regional lymphadenectomy. This study aimed to describe a method of anal transcolonic sigmoid colon resection. Methods A fresh frozen then thawed cadaver model was used. Three male human cadavers were subjected to transanal sigmoid colon mobilization, high vascular ligation, en bloc lymphadenectomy, and stapled end-to-end anastomosis performed by a single operator using transanal endoscopic microsurgery instrumentation. Results The findings showed that NOTES sigmoid colon resection with en bloc lymphadenectomy and primary anastomosis can be performed successfully. The critical steps of the procedure were (1) luminal suture occlusion of the sigmoid colon, (2) transrectal bowel division, (3) entry through the mesorectum into the presacral space, (4) en bloc mobilization of the sigmoid colon mesentery off of the retroperitoneum, (5) high ligation of the superior hemorrhoidal artery, (6) transanal delivery of the intact sigmoid colon specimen, (7) extracorporeal division of the colon, and (8) creation of a stapled end-to-end colorectal anastomosis. Postprocedure laparotomy confirmed adequate lymphadenectomy and anastomosis with no untoward events. Conclusions It is possible to complete the critical steps of a NOTES sigmoid resection, en bloc lymphadenectomy, primary anastomosis, and retrieval of an intact specimen without any incisions using transanal endoscopic microsurgery instrumentation.     

A novel single-port technique for transanal rectosigmoid resection and colorectal anastomosis on an ex vivo experimental model

Background  

In the context of natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES), we developed a new set of rigid instruments according to the principles of transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM).These instruments are long, curved, and steerable by rotating two wheels near its handle. Our success in transvaginal cholecystectomy in human with these instruments motivated us to explore the feasibility of rectosigmoid resection through the anus.     

Robotic transanal access surgery

Transanal use of laparoscopic instrumentation has been described in several case reports as an alternative to transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM). Both of these techniques have significant technical limitations due to anatomical constrictions. Robotic technology with articulating instruments has been effectively used in many areas with anatomic limitations similar to the intraluminal use within the rectum. We present the technique of a full-thickness transanal resection of a rectal polyp with endorectal suturing using a robotic platform. Larger case series and trials are needed to compare outcome and cost with TEM. Alternative robotic platforms and instrumentation may be further developed for different and more advanced indications of transanal access surgery.     

Single-port surgery and NOTES: from transanal endoscopic microsurgery and transvaginal laparoscopic cholecystectomy to transanal rectosigmoid resection

Two different ways have been developed to perform endoscopic surgery. The standard way is multiport laparoscopic surgery. When entering through a natural orifice, we use single-port surgery for transanal work (transanal endoscopic microsurgery). In clinical routine, we moved from intralumenal surgery toward surgery in the perirectal area and finally the free abdomen. In the context of natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery, we have modified the length and diameter of optics and tube and developed new mechanisms for steering long curved instruments. This technology is then used for transvaginal cholecystectomy and transanal rectosigmoid resection. Global clinical application of transanal endoscopic microsurgery has proven superiority in preciseness and clinical results for adenomas and early cancer. The initial clinical study for transvaginal cholecystectomy is successfully performed in 6 female patients with an average operation time of 80 minutes and without major complication. Feasibility of transanal rectosigmoid resection is demonstrated in an ex vivo experimental model.     

NOTES Rectosigmoid Resection Using Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery (TEM) with Transgastric Endoscopic Assistance: A Pilot Study in Swine

Introduction  Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) provides direct endoscopic access to the rectum and peritoneal cavity. The feasibility of natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) rectosigmoid resection using TEM was evaluated in swine. Transgastric endoscopic assistance to extend transanal colon mobilization was also investigated. Full-thickness circumferential rectal dissection was performed and extended proximally. After maximal sigmoid mobilization, the specimen was exteriorized and transected, and the proximal colon was stapled to the distal rectum. In a subset of animals, transgastric endoscopic access was used to mobilize the colon further. Results  Rectosigmoid resection using TEM was performed in two non-survival and seven swine cadavers (n = 9). The mean procedure time was 3 h (2.5–4 h), and mean length of resected colon was 16.7 cm (10–25 cm). Transgastric endoscopic assistance was used in three cadavers and two non-survival swine (n = 5) with a mean operative time of 3.5 h (3.5–3.75 h). The mean length of colon mobilized with transgastric and transanal endoscopic access was 24.4 cm (20–27 cm) vs. 16.7 cm which mobilized the transanal approach alone (p = 0.016). A posterior anastomotic defect was noted in two animals. Conclusion  Transanal rectosigmoid resection with TEM is feasible in swine. Combined transgastric and TEM access is a promising new technique for NOTES colorectal resection. Meeting presentations This study was accepted for presentation at the SSAT Plenary Session May 20, 2008 at Digestive Disease Week in San Diego, CA.     

Transanal endoscopic microsurgery-based transanal access for colorectal surgery: experience on human cadavers

Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) was described in 1983 for local excision of rectal tumors. In the context of natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery, we have modified the original TEM system and developed a new set of instruments. These are more curved and, in addition, steerable. After extensive studies in an ex-vivo model, we developed a novel technique for transanal rectosigmoid resection and colorectal anastomosis. The technique comprises closure of the rectal lumen by purse-string suture, transection of the rectal wall distal to the closure, circumferential mobilization of rectum and mesorectal tissue in the anatomical plane from below upward, control of the inferior mesenteric vessel, removal of mobilized colorectum through the anus, and, finally, the colorectal anastomosis by either stapled or hand-sutured technique. This procedure was performed on three alcohol-glycerol preserved well-built human cadavers (M:F=2:1). The average operating time was 190 minutes. The average length of the resected specimen was 23 cm. There was no fecal contamination or injury to the resected specimen. Postprocedure laparotomy revealed adequate mesorectal resection and no inadvertent injury to other viscera. During dissection in the pelvis, as the resected rectum was pushed upward, an unobstructed "empty pelvis" situation was developed in the operating site, thus facilitating the mesorectal resection. Transanal access for colorectal surgery seems feasible. It provides a precise definition of the distal safety margin, good view of the pelvis for meticulous mesorectal resection, and reduces the abdominal wall trauma. These may enhance the outcome of colorectal resection. However, further clinical studies can only substantiate these findings.     

Transanal polypectomy using single incision laparoscopic instruments

Transanal excision of rectal polyps with laparoscopic instrumentation and a single incision laparoscopic port is a novel technique that uses technology originally developed for abdominal procedures from the natural orifice of the rectum. Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) is a well established surgical approach for certain benign or early malignant lesions of the rectum, under specific indications. Our technique is a hybrid technique of transanal surgery, a reasonable method for polyp resection without the need of the sophisticated and expensive instrumentation of TEM which can be applied whenever endoscopic or conventional transanal surgical removal is not feasible.     

Transanal rectosigmoid resection via natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) with total mesorectal excision in a large human cadaver series

Background

The authors’ group has previously described successful transanal rectosigmoid resection via natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) in both porcine and cadaveric models using the transanal endoscopic microsurgery platform. This report describes the largest cadaveric series to date as optimization of this approach for clinical application continues.

Methods

Between December 2008 and September 2011, NOTES transanal rectosigmoid resection with total mesorectal excision (TME) was successfully performed in 32 fresh human cadavers using transanal dissection alone (n = 19), with transgastric endoscopic assistance (n = 5), or with laparoscopic assistance (n = 8). The variables recorded were gender, body mass index (BMI), operative time, length of the mobilized specimen, integrity of the mesorectum and the resected specimen, and complications. Univariate statistical analysis was performed.

Results

Of the 32 cadavers, 22 were male with a mean BMI of 24 kg/m² (range 16.3–37 kg/m²). The mean operative time was 5.1 h (range 3–8 h), and the mean specimen length was 53 cm (range 15–91.5 cm). After the first five cadavers, specimen length significantly improved, and a trend toward decreased operative time was demonstrated. The mesorectum was intact in 100 % of the specimens. In nine cadavers, endoscopic dissection was complicated by organ injury. Evaluation by the operative approach demonstrated a significantly longer specimen with laparoscopic assistance (67.7 cm) than with transgastric assistance (45.4 cm) or transanal dissection alone (49.2 cm) (p = 0.013). Comparison of the technique used for inferior mesenteric pedicle division demonstrated both significantly decreased operative time (4.8 vs 6 h; p = 0.024) and increased specimen length (57.7 vs 39.6 cm; p = 0.025) when a stapler was used in lieu of a bipolar cautery device.

Conclusion

Transanal NOTES rectosigmoid resection with TME is feasible and demonstrates improvement in specimen length and operative time with experience. Transitioning to clinical application requires laparoscopic assistance to overcome limitations related to NOTES instrumentation, as well as procedural training with fresh human cadavers.     

Transanal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) rectal resection: “down-to-up” total mesorectal excision (TME)—short-term outcomes in the first 20 cases

Background

The transanal minilaparoscopy-assisted natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) approach holds significant promise as a safe and less morbid alternative to conventional low anterior rectal resection. Previous reports have shown satisfactory short-term oncologic results. We evaluated the safety and short-term outcomes in rectal cancer subjects who underwent transanal minilaparoscopy-assisted natural orifice surgery total mesorectal excision (TME) rectal resection.

Methods

Twenty selected patients with rectal cancer were enrolled onto a prospective study of minilaparoscopy-assisted natural orifice surgery TME rectal resection. The study endpoints were safety of access (intra- or postoperative morbidity) and adequacy of oncological resection criteria; intact TME; distal and circumferential margins; and number of lymph nodes retrieved.

Results

All procedures were successfully completed with the transanal NOTES and minilaparoscopy technique. The mean age was 65 ± 10 years; 55 % of patients were male; the mean body mass index was 25.3 ± 3.8 kg/m². Thirty-five percent of tumors were in the distal rectum, 50 % in midrectum, and 15 % in proximal rectum. Coloanal anastomoses were hand sewn in 65 % and stapled in 35 %. Mean operative time was 235 ± 56 min. There were no procedure-related complications. Pathologic analysis demonstrated negative distal and circumferential margins in all patients. An average of 15.9 ± 4.3 lymph nodes were retrieved. The mesorectal fascia was intact in all the specimens.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that transanal NOTES with minilaparoscopic assistance in the hands of a specialized team is safe; meets the oncologic requirements for high-quality rectal cancer surgery; and may offer advantages over pure laparoscopic approaches for visualizing and dissecting out the distal mesorectum. Minilaparoscopic assistance allows one to compensate for the limitations of current NOTES instrumentation to ensure the safety and adequacy of oncologic resection in these difficult cases. Careful patient selection, a specialized team, and long-term outcome evaluation are critical before this procedure can be considered for routine clinical use.     

Endoscopic decompression of benign large bowel obstruction using a transanal drainage tube

Aim Endoscopic decompression of malignant colorectal obstruction is often dealt with using expandable metallic stents. Endoscopic decompression of benign large bowel obstruction is more difficult. We report the technique and outcome of transanal endoscopic decompression for benign large bowel obstruction. Method From January 2001 to June 2010, endoscopic decompression using a transanal drainage tube placement was attempted in consecutive patients with benign large bowel obstruction. The clinical features, technical success, complications, treatment after the tube placement and clinical success were retrospectively evaluated. Results There were 13 patients (seven males, age 47–87, mean 69 years). The sites of obstruction were transverse colon [5 (38%)], sigmoid colon [3 (23%)], ileocecal valve [2 (15%)], splenic flexure [1 (8%)], descending colon [1 (8%)] and rectum [1 (8%)]. The most common cause of obstruction was anastomotic stricture [9 (69%)]. In 12 (92%) patients transanal decompression was technically successful with one perforation. An overtube, the reinsertion of colonoscope along the decompression tube, or the use of a small‐diameter endoscope was required for the tube placement in seven (54%). In seven (54%) patients tube placement alone resulted in relief of bowel obstruction without operation. Conclusion Endoscopic decompression using a transanal drainage tube is effective for the management of benign large bowel obstruction.     

Ten-year experience of endoscopic transanal resection

OBJECTIVE: To audit the results of endoscopic transanal resection of tumor (ETAR) performed by a single surgeon at a specialized colorectal unit during a 10- year period. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: A minimally invasive surgical technique, ETAR has enabled much progress to be made in the development of local treatment strategies for rectal neoplasia. It can be used in both the curative and palliative management of rectal lesions and is a treatment option for patients who would be unable to tolerate major surgery. METHODS: The surgical outcome of 104 patients (43 women, 61 men) undergoing ETAR under the care of a single surgeon between 1989 and 1999 was reviewed. Patients were identified from the consultant's personal records and cross-referenced with operating room logs. Data were collected retrospectively and no patients were lost to follow-up. RESULTS: One hundred four patients underwent 163 procedures during the study period. Follow-up ranged from 6 months to 10 years. Seventy-five patients with a pre-ETAR diagnosis of benign rectal adenoma underwent resection. In 60 patients, the diagnosis was confirmed to be benign; 30 of these were treated with a single resection and 28 with multiple resections. There were two technical failures, both a result of high mobility of the lesion. In no patients did carcinoma subsequently develop. In the remaining 15 patients the final histology demonstrated a malignancy; 9 patients underwent an open surgical rectal resection and 5 had complete endoscopic resection of their lesion. No carcinomas that were fully resected endoscopically have recurred (follow-up 13 months to 8years). The final patient had an extensive rectal cancer and was palliated for 2 months by ETAR. Twelve patients (8 men, 4 women) underwent ETAR for anastomotic strictures; successful treatment was achieved in 11. The one failure was in a Park's pouch that was subsequently refashioned. Seventeen patients underwent 30 ETARs for palliation of nonresectable rectal adenocarcinoma. Successful palliation of symptoms was achieved in 13 patients and the remainder underwent colostomy formation. One patient died of a myocardial infarction. There were two further complications (blood transfusion for postoperative bleeding, postoperative cerebrovascular accident). CONCLUSIONS: Endoscopic transanal resection of tumor is safe and effective and offers successful palliation or definitive treatment of rectal lesions with low rates of death and complications when performed by a dedicated surgeon.     

Indikation und Technik der transanal endoskopischen Operation

Transanal endoscopic operation (TEO) is a minimally invasive treatment option for certain rectal tumors. The TEO procedure has evolved as a new technique from transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) which was developed by G. Bue?. Apart from the excision of benign lesions this method can also be applied in patients with low-risk T1 carcinoma if size and localization permit complete resection (R0). Using these strict criteria for patient selection one can expect an excellent oncological outcome. However, it must to be stressed that local excision is always part of the diagnostic work-up and that the definitive histology needs to be appreciated. In cases of unfavorable histology (i.e. high risk or higher T stage) radical salvage resection should be performed. Functional results and quality of life are very good following TEO or TEM procedures, especially when comparing the outcome with that of radical rectal resection or abdominoperineal excision.     

经肛门内镜微创手术与传统经肛门局切术治疗早期直肠肿瘤的疗效对比

目的 对比经肛门内镜微创手术(TEM)与传统经肛门局切术(TAE)治疗早期直肠肿瘤的应用指征、安全性、疗效.方法 回顾性分析上海交通大学医学院附属瑞金医院普外科2003年1月- 2006年7月完成的76例传统经肛门局切术及2006年9月- 2010年2月完成的53例经肛门内镜微创手术的临床资料.结果 两组患者性别、年龄...     

Transanal endoscopic microsurgery

Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery (TEM) is a specialized form of transanal endoscopic surgery that utilizes an operating proctoscope, gas insufflation, specialized instrumentation, and magnified stereoscopic vision to operate on lesions that were previously deemed unresectable or unreachable by traditional transanal techniques. Herein we present a brief overview of TEM, including the operative indications for both malignant and benign lesions, necessary equipment, operative technique, and a discussion of operative and oncologic outcomes.     

Transanal hybrid colon resection: from laparoscopy to NOTES

Background

Reducing access size and trauma are important issues in natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES). The combination of experience with laparoscopic colorectal surgery and transanal endoscopic microsurgery has helped in the use of the transanal approach as a realistic option of NOTES techniques to introduce transanal hybrid laparoscopic-assisted colon resection into clinical practice. The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical introduction of transanal hybrid colon resection in terms of feasibility and patient safety.

Methods

Patients with pelvic floor disorders, prolapse, and slow-transit constipation in whom a colon resection was indicated were recruited. Patients were followed prospectively with a postoperative well-being score, a pain score, and a quality-of-life score. All complications were prospectively documented. The essential change was the reduction of the number and size of ports by using the transanal route. A camera and two 5-mm ports for grasping forceps and delivering ultrasonic energy were the laparoscopic components. All tasks requiring a port diameter of >5 mm were applied via the transanal route, such as positioning of the proximal stapler anvil, application of linear stapling for resection, specimen retrieval, stapler anastomosis, and closing the bowel.

Results

Fifteen patients with benign colorectal disease underwent transanal hybrid colon resection, and 11 had additional rectopexy. All patients were women with a mean age of 61 (range, 28–86) years and a body mass index of 26 kg/m². One patient was converted to full laparoscopy. One complication—bleeding that required no reintervention—was recorded. The procedure lasted a mean of 131 (range, 55–184) min. The Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index was 96 before surgery and 117 after surgery.

Conclusions

From this initial experience, transanal hybrid colon resection seems a feasible and safe hybrid NOTES procedure that can be usefully introduced into clinical practice.     

Benign rectal strictures managed with transanal resection – A novel application for transanal endoscopic microsurgery

Objective Six cases of management of rectal strictures by transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) are described. Method Patients are placed in the lithotomy – Trendelenburg position and the stricture is resected from 4–8 o’clock through the entire thickness of the fibrosis. The upper resection edge is mobilized including all layers of the rectal wall and the defect is sutured along the circumference. Results Satisfactory anatomical and functional long‐term results were obtained in 5 of 6 patients. Conclusion TEM resection of benign strictures is feasible in some patients and should be tested in a randomized study against known procedures.     

An evaluation of transanal endoscopic microsurgery for rectal adenoma and carcinoma.

BACKGROUND: Transanal endoscopic microsurgery was introduced in the early 1980s. Since then, increasing numbers of rectal adenomas are being excised by this technique. The aim of this study was to evaluate our institution's experience with transanal endoscopic microsurgery for rectal adenoma and carcinoma. METHODS: Seventy-five patients (adenomas, n = 58) underwent more than 90 TEM resections over a period of 5 years. RESULTS: Postoperative complications were minimal with 3% (n = 2) in the adenoma group requiring transfusion and 0% 30-day mortality. One patient in each group developed transient fecal incontinence. During the follow-up period, 6 patients (10%) in the adenoma group underwent further local resections for their recurrences. Two patients in the carcinoma group (1 each of pathological T1 and T2 stage) developed recurrence at 24 months. A female with a T2 tumor was found to have an inoperable lesion and underwent sigmoid colostomy. Five of 17 patients had postoperative radiotherapy, and 2 patients developed radiation enteritis. Four patients died during follow-up due to unrelated reasons. CONCLUSION: The transanal endoscopic microsurgery technique appears to be safe and associated with minimal morbidity. Careful selection of patients with thorough preoperative assessment is necessary for carcinoma patients. Patients with T1 lesions and favorable histology should only be considered for curative resection by this technique.