Response to Raj et al Abdominoperineal resection by trans‐anal TME approach: are we refuting the technology a bit too early?

Abstract

We thank Raj et al. for their interest in our recent publication 'Transanal total mesorectal excision for abdominoperineal resection (taTME-APR) is associated with poor oncological outcomes in rectal cancer patients.A word of caution from a multicentric Canadian cohort study' [1]. We are appreciative of the opportunity to further explain the objectives, methodology and findings of our study. As indicated in the manuscript's title, the objective was to caution surgeons who are currently performing abdominoperineal resections via taTME (taTME-APR), or