Factors affecting the difficulty of laparoscopic total mesorectal excision for mid- to lower rectal cancer

Abstract

Background The purpose of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of clinical and anatomical features on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that can affect pelvic dissection time for treating mid- to lower rectal cancer. Methods A total of 90 consecutive male patients who underwent total mesorectal excision for mid- to lower rectal cancer were retrospectively assessed. MRI pelvimetry data were analyzed to identify anatomical features that could affect pelvic dissection time. Results Univariate analysis indicated that tumor distance from the anal verge (p = 0.001), preoperative chemoradiotherapy (p = 0.002), and interspinous distance (p = 0.002) were significantly associated with pelvic dissection time. Conclusion Patients with a short interspinous distance may require a longer pelvic dissection time for treating rectal cancer by resection.