ObjectiveTo determine whether survival and recurrence after laparoscopic-assisted surgery for colorectal cancer is compromised by an initial laparoscopic approach. Summary Background DataLaparoscopic colorectal resection for malignancy remains controversial 8 years after its first description. Fears regarding compromised oncologic principles and early recurrence (particularly the phenomenon of port-site metastases) have tempered enthusiasm for this approach. Long-term follow-up data are at present scarce.

The TEMS operating system provides the surgeon with a suitable alternative for the resection of benign and malignant rectal neoplasms in selected patients. It has the advantage of providing visual clarity of the operative field, allowing more precise dissection and a minimally invasive approach to mid and upper rectal lesions. There has been no mortality and minimal morbidity. We advocate its inclusion as part of a colorectal surgeon's operative armamentarium for these selected cases.

Use of a pelvic phased-array coil did not improve the staging accuracy of MRI to a clinically useful level.