Diseases of the colon and rectum
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We performed a prospective pilot study of robotic-assisted laparoscopic transanal proctectomy with total mesorectal excision for the surgical treatment of rectal cancer. This study was to assess the feasibility and safety of robotic-assisted laparoscopic transanal total mesorectal excision. ⋯ Robotic-assisted laparoscopic transanal total mesorectal excision is a feasible and safe option for the surgical management of early-stage rectal cancers. Robotic technology with endowristed instruments and 3-dimensional high-definition imaging are of great help in overcoming the limitations of traditional laparoscopic transanal surgery. Long-term functional and oncological assessments of outcome are needed.
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Radiotherapy reduces local recurrence rates but is also capable of short- and long-term toxicity. It may also render treatment of local recurrence more challenging if it develops despite previous radiotherapy. ⋯ Patients who previously received radiotherapy for primary rectal cancer treatment have worse oncologic outcomes than those who had not received radiotherapy after pelvic exenteration for locally recurrent rectal cancer.
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Perioperative allogeneic red blood cell transfusion has been conclusively shown to be associated with adverse oncologic outcomes after resection of nonmetastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma. ⋯ In patients undergoing liver resection for colorectal liver metastases, perioperative transfusion is independently associated with earlier disease recurrence. This emphasizes appropriate blood management measures, including the conservative correction of preoperative anemia, the use of low transfusion triggers, and the minimization of intraoperative blood loss.
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Over the past few years, the laparoscopic peritoneal lavage has emerged as a therapeutic alternative to standard resection procedures. However, its effectiveness and applicability remain debatable. ⋯ The effectiveness of laparoscopic lavage seems to be high. Although its applicability is lower, it could be applied in more than half of patients requiring emergency surgery. This alternative strategy should be considered when laparoscopic assessment reveals Hinchey III diverticulitis.