Transanal excision of benign rectal polyps: Indications, technique, and outcomes

Due to screening programs, rectal polyps are increasingly observed nowadays. Mostly, these are adenomas, which can contain or develop into invasive rectal carcinoma. All rectal adenomas should therefore be completely removed. Transanal endoscopic microsurgery is currently the treatment of choice for large rectal adenomas. This review will discuss the current literature regarding the pre-operative workup and staging of rectal adenomas considered for transanal excision, technical considerations, surgical outcomes as well as alternative approaches.