Is there a limit to transanal endoscopic surgery? A comparative study between standard and technically challenging indications among 168 consecutive patients

Abstract

Transanal endoscopic surgery for rectal neoplasms appears to be safe and effective, even in patients presenting with a technically challenging tumours. Although the short- and long-term outcomes after TES are worse in patients with highly challenging tumours, nevertheless the technique should still be considered in patients at high risk of requiring a proctectomy.