Rectum

Surgery is a primary treatment for rectal cancer, aimed at removing the cancerous tissue and, if necessary, nearby lymph nodes. The type of surgery performed for rectal cancer depends on several factors, including the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Here are some common surgical procedures used in the treatment of rectal cancer:

• Transanal Excision (TAE): This procedure is typically used for small, early-stage rectal cancers that are located close to the anus. During a transanal excision, the cancerous tissue is removed through the anus using specialized instruments. TAE is a minimally invasive approach that may be performed under local anesthesia.
• Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery (TEM): Similar to TAE, TEM is used for early-stage rectal cancers near the anus. However, TEM utilizes specialized equipment, including an endoscope and microscope, to provide better visualization and precision during surgery.
• Low Anterior Resection (LAR): LAR is a surgical procedure used to remove the cancerous tissue in the upper part of the rectum while preserving the anus and sphincter muscles. After removing the cancerous portion of the rectum, the remaining healthy tissue is reattached to the colon, allowing for normal bowel function.
• Abdominoperineal Resection (APR): APR is performed for rectal cancers located very close to the anus or in the lower part of the rectum. During an APR, the entire rectum, anus, and surrounding tissues are removed. After the rectum is removed, the surgeon creates a permanent colostomy, where the end of the colon is brought out through an opening in the abdomen (stoma), allowing waste to exit the body into a pouch worn outside the body.
• Total Mesorectal Excision (TME): TME is a meticulous surgical technique used to remove the rectum and surrounding lymph nodes while preserving the nerves that control bowel and bladder function. TME aims to achieve complete removal of the cancerous tissue while minimizing damage to nearby structures.