A pilot study of natural orifice transanal endoscopic total mesorectal excision with laparoscopic assistance for rectal cancer

Abstract

In this pilot study of five patients with rectal cancer, transanal endoscopic TME with laparoscopic assistance is feasible and safe, and is a promising alternative to open and laparoscopic TME. Evaluation of long-term functional and oncologic outcomes of this approach is needed before widespread adoption can be recommended.