Our initial results suggest that the reported technique is safe and satisfies the oncological principles. It provides the advantages of minimally invasive surgery by overcoming some limitations of conventional thoracoscopy.

Robotic-assisted laparoscopic transanal total mesorectal excision is a feasible and safe option for the surgical management of early-stage rectal cancers. Robotic technology with endowristed instruments and 3-dimensional high-definition imaging are of great help in overcoming the limitations of traditional laparoscopic transanal surgery. Long-term functional and oncological assessments of outcome are needed.

Using the robotic technology and a specifically designed port for robotic transanal access, TME was shown to be feasible and one specific preferred set-up was determined. Further clinical trials will be necessary to assess the safety and efficacy of this technique.