Total Mesorectal Excision and Low Rectal Anastomosis for the Treatment of Rectal Cancer and Prevention of Pelvic Recurrences

Abstract

Microscopic spread to the distal mesorectum may exceed the intramural spread of rectal cancer. Failure to perform total mesorectal excision leaves a potentially residual disease in the distal mesorectum, thus predisposing the patient to pelvic recurrence.