title: Outcomes following proctectomy.
abstract: Rectal resection is the most common treatment of rectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. The surgical techniques for removing and reconstructing the rectum have evolved significantly over the past 50 years. Technological advances including retractors, stapling devices, energy delivery systems, and minimally invasive approaches, as well as the nerve-sparing total mesorectal excision, have revolutionized the surgical treatment. Surgical exposure and precise technique affect the ability to preserve the pelvic autonomic nerves, directly influencing postoperative urinary and sexual function. The complex interplay between all these factors demands attention because of the associated short-term and long-term impact on patient quality of life.
authors.affiliation: Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA.
authors.forename: Joshua I S
authors.initials: JI
authors.lastname: Bleier
authors.forename: Justin A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Maykel
mesh_terms: D001341:Autonomic Nervous System / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D003672:Defecation / Q000502:physiology; D013505:Digestive System Surgical Procedures / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy; D010388:Pelvis / Q000294:innervation; D011788:Quality of Life; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures; D020127:Recovery of Function / Q000502:physiology; D012002:Rectal Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D012004:Rectal Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D012007:Rectum / Q000601:surgery*; D012018:Reflex / Q000502:physiology; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D001743:Urinary Bladder / Q000294:innervation