Functional outcomes after disc excision in deep endometriosis of the rectum using transanal staplers: a series of 111 consecutive patients.

Objective: To assess the postoperative outcomes of patients with rectal endometriosis managed by disc excision using transanal staplers.

Design: Prospective study using data recorded in the CIRENDO database (NCT02294825). Setting: University tertiary referral center. Patient(s): A total of 111 consecutive patients managed between June 2009 and June 2016. Intervention(s): We performed rectal disc excision using two different transanal staplers: [1] the Contour Transtar stapler (the Rouen technique); and [2] the end to end anastomosis circular transanal stapler. Main outcomes measure(s): Pre- and postoperative digestive function was assessed using standardized gastrointestinal questionnaires: the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index and the Knowles-Eccersley-Scott Symptom Questionnaire. Result(s): The two staplers were used in 42 (37.8%) and 69 patients (62.2%), respectively. The largest diameter of specimens achieved was significantly higher using the Rouen technique (mean ± SD, 59 ± 11 mm vs. 36 ± 7 mm), which was used to remove nodules located lower in the rectum (5.5 ± 1.3 cm vs. 9.7 ± 2.5 cm) infiltrating more frequently the adjacent posterior vaginal wall (83.3% vs. 49.3%). Associated nodules involving sigmoid colon were managed by distinct procedures, either disc excision (2.7%) or segmental resection of sigmoid colon (9.9%). Postoperative values for the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index increased 1 and 3 years after the surgery, but improvement in constipation was not significant. The probability of pregnancy at 1 year after the arrest of medical treatment was 73.3% (95% confidence interval 54.9%-88.9%), with a majority of spontaneous conceptions. Conclusion(s): Disc excision using transanal staplers is a valuable alternative to colorectal resection in selected patients presenting with rectal endometriosis, allowing for good preservation of rectal function.