Transanal Total Mesorectal Excision Versus Robotic Total Mesorectal Excision

In the researchers' words

Background: Laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (TME) for rectal cancer is technically challenging because of the confined space within the pelvis. The robotic surgical system is recently introduced to overcome the limitations of laparoscopy in terms of visualization and maneuverability, but robotic surgery is expensive. Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) is an emerging surgical approach that allows dissection of the most difficult part of the TME plane deep down in the pelvis using a less costly transanal platform. To date, no randomized controlled trial can be found in the literature comparing TaTME and robotic TME. Objectives: To compare the pathologic outcomes, functional outcomes, and costs between TaTME and robotic TME for mid or low rectal cancer. Design: Prospective, randomized, controlled, superiority trial. Subjects: One hundred and eight consecutive patients who are clinically diagnosed with cT1-3, N0-2, M0 rectal cancer located within 12 cm of the anal verge who do not require abdominoperineal resection will be recruited. Interventions: Patients will be randomly allocated to undergo either TaTME or robotic TME. Outcome measures: Primary outcome: composite pathologic endpoint (complete TME, clear circumferential and distal resection margins). Secondary outcomes: conversion rate, postoperative recovery, morbidity, health-related quality of life,…