Anatomical sphincteroplasty as a surgical treatment for faecal incontinence: proposal for a global anatomical reconstructive surgical procedure and results from a case series.

The aim of this study is to describe the technical details and clinical and functional results of anatomical sphincteroplasty as a global reconstructive surgery for the treatment of faecal incontinence caused by anal sphincter lesions. This was a prospective, longitudinal study that included patients who underwent the anatomical sphincteroplasty procedure described here to treat complete sphincter damage. We have described the different technical steps in detail.

Navigating surgical anatomy of the Denonvilliers' fascia and dissection planes of the anterior mesorectum with a cadaveric simulation model.

Anterior dissection of the rectum in the male pelvis represents one of the most complex phases of total meso-rectal excision. However, the possible existence of different anatomical planes is controversial and the exact anatomical topography of Denonvilliers' fascia is still debated. The aim of the study is to accurately define in a cadaveric simulation model the existence and boundaries of Denonvilliers' fascia, identifying the anatomical planes suitable for surgical dissection.

"Near-TME": proposed standardisation of the technique for proctectomy in male patients with ulcerative colitis.

Background: The aim of the present study was to describe in detail an approach to proctectomy in ulcerative colitis (UC), which can be standardized; near-total mesorectal excision (near-TME), to prevent injuries to autonomic pelvic nerves and subsequent sexual dysfunction.

Methods: We demonstrate the technique ex vivo on a cadaver from a male patient in lithotomy position and on a sagittal section of a male pelvis. We also demonstrate the technique in vivo in two male patients diagnosed with UC, with no history of sexual dysfunction or bowel neoplasia.

Surgical Anatomy of the Rectovaginal Space: Does a Standalone Rectovaginal Septum or Denonvilliers Fascia Exist in Women?

Background: Below the anterior peritoneal reflection, the anterior rectal wall and mesorectum are separated from the posterior vaginal wall by a virtual rectovaginal space. In this space, the description of a specific and independent rectovaginal septum as a female counterpart of Denonvilliers fascia has been the subject of debate over the years.

Objective: The aim of this study is to perform an accurate anatomical study of the rectovaginal area in a cadaveric simulation model of total mesorectal excision to evaluate the possible structures and the dissection planes contained within the rectovaginal space.