Short‐term outcomes of medium‐low rectal cancer treated by taTME and experience of 22 cases

Background and Methods Transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) is a novel radical resection technique that may address the unsatisfactory functional and oncological outcomes of medium‐low rectal cancers. Although its oncological safety remains unclear, taTME has demonstrable value in surgery, complications, and oncological outcomes. Here, we explore the short‐term outcomes of rectal cancer after taTME and discuss the surgical experience. Twenty‐two patients with medium‐low rectal cancer who underwent taTME were retrospectively evaluated. Comprehensive demographic, oncological, and clinical data were analyzed and the perioperative state and postoperative follow‐up were evaluated. Results Over a median follow‐up period of 24.4 (4–36) months, local recurrence occurred in one patient at 6 months postsurgery. Fecal incontinence was the most common postoperative complication, and 3–6 months of pelvic‐floor‐rehabilitation training greatly improved  anal function Conclusions taTME achieved satisfactory short‐term outcomes in oncological complications and postoperative functions. Accurate intraoperative anatomical location, identification of the rectovesical fascia, and neuroprotection are critical. However, this procedure has a steep learning curve, and large samples and multicenter studies are required to substantiate its effectiveness. Discussion We retrospectively analyzed the oncological and functional prognosis of 22 patients with colorectal cancer undergoing taTME surgery and preliminarily concluded taTME can be regarded as a safe and feasible treatment.