Background: Waterjet dissection has been proposed for total mesorectal excision. The present study investigated its impact on urodynamic function and oncological outcome.
Methods: Thirty patients with rectal cancer were recruited to this prospective study, of whom 25 underwent urodynamic evaluation both before and after surgery.
Results: All patients were capable of spontaneous micturition at a median of 5 months after surgery. Urodynamic measurements revealed a decrease in detrusor pressure of more than 30 mmHg, and residual urine volumes of between 100 and 200 ml, in three patients. No patient had a complete neurogenic voiding disorder. Local recurrences developed in two of 22 patients.
Conclusion: The extent of micturition disorders observed after total mesorectal excision using the waterjet method in this small series is encouraging.
Copyright (c) 2007 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd.