Transanal minimally invasive surgery for rectal polyps and selected malignant tumors: caution concerning intermediate-term functional results.

PURPOSE: Transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS) is gaining worldwide popularity as an alternative for the transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEMS) method for the local excision of rectal polyps and selected neoplasms. Data on patient reported outcomes regarding short-term follow-up are scarce; data on functional outcomes for long-term follow-up is non-existent.

METHODS: We used the fecal incontinence severity index (FISI) to prospectively assess the fecal continence on the intermediate-term follow-up after TAMIS. The primary outcome measure is postoperative fecal continence. Secondary outcome measures are as follows: perioperative and intermediate-term morbidity.

RESULTS: Forty-two patients (m = 21:f = 21), median age 68.5 (range 34-94) years, were included in the analysis. In four patients (9.5%), postoperative complications occurred. The median follow-up was 36 months (range 24-48). Preoperative mean FISI score was 8.3 points. One year after TAMIS, mean FISI score was 5.4 points (p = 0.501). After 3 years of follow-up, mean FISI score was 10.1 points (p = 0.01). Fecal continence improved in 11 patients (26%). Continence decreased in 20 patients (47.6%) (mean FISI score 15.2 points, [range 3-31]).

CONCLUSIONS: This study found that the incidence of impaired fecal continence after TAMIS is substantial; however, the clinical significance of this deterioration seems minor. The present data is helpful in acquiring informed consent and emphasizes the need of proper patient information. Functional results seem to be comparable to results after TEMS. Furthermore, we confirmed TAMIS is safe and associated with low morbidity.