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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2007; 20(3): 221-230
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-984866
Copyright © 2007 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Reconstruction Techniques after Proctectomy: What's the Best?

Sebastian G. de la Fuente1 , Christopher R. Mantyh1
  • 1Division of Colorectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
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Publication History

Publication Date:
31 July 2007 (online)

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ABSTRACT

There are ~40,000 new rectal cancer cases diagnosed each year in the United States, representing the second most common gastrointestinal malignancy (behind colon cancer). With the advent of sphincter preserving techniques, patients with mid and low colorectal cancers enjoy the benefits of better postoperative functional outcomes and quality of life; however, controversy exists over which reconstructive technique is superior in restoring bowel continuity. Construction of a straight coloanal anastomosis is technically simpler, but functional outcomes are inferior compared with colonic reservoirs. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current data regarding reconstructive techniques following proctectomy.

KEYWORDS

Rectal neoplasms - colonic pouches - proctocolectomy - restorative - anastomosis - surgical

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Christopher R MantyhM.D. 

DUMC, P.O. Box 3117

Durham, NC 27710

Email: manty001@mc.duke.edu