LAUSR

Dorsal vein complex (DVC) and urethral transection during total pelvic exenteration (TPE) is time-consuming, technically challenging, and associated with a high rate of hemorrhage. Although laparoscopic surgery is associated with less intraoperative blood loss during TPE [1], it is still technically challenging to perform in DVC and urethral transection. Techniques for transecting the DVC during radical prostatectomy have been reported [2–4]. Concerning the surgical technique of TPE for rectal malignancy, only limited studies have described the technique used for DVC and urethral transection. Hayashi et al. reported that the urethra could be successfully transected using a linear stapler, but the DVC was not successfully transected [5]. Techniques using a linear stapler for transection of the DVC and urethra have not been described. We describe our simple technique for transecting the DVC and urethra easily and without significant bleeding during laparoscopic TPE in rectal cancer. Case description and operative technique