Robot-assisted intersphincteric resection

Abstract

The major benefits of laparoscopic colorectal surgery include; better cosmesis, less post-operative pain, earlier return of normal bowel function and shorter hospital stay without sacrificing oncological clearance. Despite its popularity, however, conventional laparoscopic surgery has its short comings such as a limited two dimensional views, limited dexterity of instruments within the confines of the abdominal space, fixed instrument tips and possible misalignment of hands and instruments. The preservation of anal sphincter function while obtaining an oncological clearance in very low rectal cancers can be very challenging. When performing a laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (Lap TME), meticulous and precise dissection of the mesorectum in a previously irradiated rectum down to the pelvic floor within the confines of a narrow pelvis, is a technical challenge even for experienced laparoscopic colorectal surgeons.