Surgical Innovations and Outcomes in the Management of Rectal Cancer: A Departmental Study on Advanced Techniques and Postoperative Care

Background: Rectal cancer is a significant global health issue, accounting for a substantial proportion of colorectal cancer cases. Surgical innovations and comprehensive postoperative care have significantly improved patient outcomes. This study evaluates the impact of advanced surgical techniques and Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols on managing rectal cancer across multiple centers in the Rajshahi Division. Objective: The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of minimally invasive surgical techniques, including laparoscopic, -assisted, and transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME), compared to traditional open Surgery. It also examined the role of ERAS protocols in enhancing recovery and reducing complications. Method: This multicenter, retrospective study included 88 patients diagnosed with rectal cancer who underwent surgical treatment from June 2021 to June 2022 across various hospitals in the Rajshahi Division. Patients were categorized based on the type of Surgery received, and postoperative outcomes, including complications, hospital stay, and survival rates, were analyzed. Data were statistically evaluated using SPSS version 26, with significance at p < 0.05. Result: Of the 88 patients, 50% underwent laparoscopic Surgery, 20% -assisted surgery, 10% taTME, and 20% open surgery. Patients who underwent minimally invasive techniques had significantly shorter hospital stays (mean of 6 days) than open Surgery (mean of 10 days, p = 0.001). The overall complication rate was lower in the minimally invasive group (17%) compared to the open surgery group (30%). Two-year survival rates were highest in the -assisted and taTME groups (90% and 92%, respectively). Conclusions: Advanced surgical techniques, particularly -assisted Surgery, and taTME, combined with ERAS protocols, significantly improve patient outcomes in rectal cancer management.