OBJECTIVETo evaluate the feasibility of laparoscopy assisted total mesorectal excision (TME) for rectal cancer.

METHODFrom March 2000 to November 2003,67 patients with rectal cancer received laparoscopy assisted TME,in whom 45 cases received anterior resection (AR),and 22 cases received abdominal perineal resection (APR).

RESULTSThe operation was performed according to the rules of TME. The operative bleeding volume ranged from 10 to 50 ml. The operative time ranged from 2.5 to 5 hours without operative related death. Gastrointestinal decompression time ranged from 8 to 24 hours after operation. The time of intaking fluid food ranged from 24 to 48 hours after operation; the time of taking general activity ranged from 1 to 3 days after operation,and the defecating time ranged from 1 to 5 days after operation. The time of the hospital stay ranged from 7 to 10 days. All patients were followed up from 3 to 43 months except 3 patients. Two patients had local recurrence, including 1 patient died of local recurrence; 2 patients had liver metastases including 1 patient died of tumor metastasis but another was still alive. No metastasis and recurrence was found in 19 patients within follow - up time of one year.

CONCLUSIONThe laparoscopy assisted TME is a feasible approach for rectal cancer if surgeons have experience in open operation of laparoscopy assisted TME and good managing skills.