Anatomical considerations for transanal minimal‐invasive surgery: the caudal to cephalic approach

Abstract

This anatomical guide for the pelvic surgeon should facilitate a safe and nerve-sparing dissection of the mesorectal plane with a meticulous overview of the lowest autonomic nerve fibres. New anatomical insights by a 'caudal to cephalic' approach to the 'no-man's land' should help overcome anatomical constraints of a narrow, obese and male pelvis during rectal mobilization procedures.