Laparoscopic Rectal Resection for Cancer

Laparoscopic colon resection for cancer has been proven oncologically equivalent to conventional surgery. Advantages of the laparoscopic approach include smaller incision and quicker recovery. In an attempt to translate these benefits to rectal cancer patients, minimally invasive techniques have been applied to this disease as well, with varying results. Laparoscopic rectal resection for cancer is a challenging procedure, due to the narrow confines of the bony pelvis and the need for mesorectal resection with preservation of autonomic nerves. Additionally, current technology limits our ability to effect efficient stapling of the distal rectum. The available data, although primarily consisting of retrospective analyses, do include limited prospective randomized trials in which some rectal cancer patients were included. This article will review current published literature and will describe the author's technique for laparoscopic rectal cancer resection.