Autonomic Nerve Preservation During Pelvic Dissection for Rectal Cancer

L. Ruo; Jesco Pfitzenmaier; J. G. Guillem

doi:10.1055/s-2002-23566

Clinics in Colon and Rectal Surgery, Table of Contents

Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2002; 15(1): 035-042
DOI: 10.1055/s-2002-23566

Autonomic Nerve Preservation During Pelvic Dissection for Rectal Cancer

L. Ruo, Jesco Pfitzenmaier, J. G. Guillem

Colorectal Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, NY, NY

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Autonomic nerve preservation (ANP) during rectal cancer resection is based upon a comprehensive understanding of pelvic surgical anatomy and the effects of nerve injury on genitourinary dysfunction. Techniques that combine ANP with radical rectal cancer resection developed over the last 20 years have reduced the risk of sexual and bladder dysfunction without compromising oncologic results. In this article, a detailed description of the operative techniques currently employed is highlighted by comments and figures of the pertinent pelvic anatomy. The results of genitourinary function subsequent to nerve-preserving rectal cancer surgery are also presented.

KEYWORD

Autonomic nerve preservation - rectal cancer - genitourinary function

Full Text

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