Retrorectal Tumor - Using a Posterior Approach

Abstract Retrorectal tumors (RRT) include diseases that are difficult to diagnose owing to their unspecific and overlapping symptoms. There is a significant lack of literature about approaches to these retrorectal tumors. Usually asymptomatic, when symptoms occur, they may manifest as mass effects, i.e., back pain, altered bowel or bladder function, numbness in lower extremities, or abdominal pain. It is imperative to differentiate them from low rectal cancers as the treatment modalities differ considerably. The majority of these tumors are excised using an anterior approach. In this case report, we aim to highlight the importance of the posterior approach for pelvic tumors as a feasible option for a specific category of RRT. Here we present the case of a 42-year-old male who experienced constipation and dyschezia for 4 years. Upon per rectal examination, a retrorectal mass, not involving the rectal wall, was identified and was surgically excised using a posterior approach as described by Kraske.