Total mesorectal excision with radiofrequency in rectal cancer.

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the safety, the efficacy and the oncologic results in rectal cancer with total mesorectal excision using Ligasure (LS), a modern bipolar vessel sealing system, with monopolar electrocoagulation or stitches (ME).

Methods: From July 2005 to December 2007 one hundred twenty-nine patients underwent colon resection for cancer at the San Martino Hospital of Genoa (Italy); 43 patients underwent rectal resection. All patients underwent laparotomy rectal resection with total mesorectal excision; 9 (21%, group LS) underwent total mesorectal excision with radiofrequency, 34 (79%, group ME) with monopolar electrocoagulations, vessels ligation or stitches. Patients of group LS were similar to patients of group ME in age, gender, weight and body mass index. Cancer stage was for group A 3 stage B, 5 stage C and 1 stage D, for group B 4 stage A, 15 stage B, 8 stage C, 6 stage D and 1 non-staged tumor.

Results: There were no differences in intraoperative or postoperative complications. Operating time was similar in both group. Oncological results was similar in both groups. The major cost in group LS were attributable to cost of service.

Conclusion: The Ligasure device does not reduce operating time in laparotomy rectal cancer resection but permit correct oncological results in patients submitted to total mesorectal excision. The costs of device reserved its use to surgery of low-rectal cancer or laparoscopic approach.