total mesorectal excision
Also written as: TME — Total Mesorectal Excision
Standardized surgical technique for rectal cancer involving complete removal of the mesorectum within its fascial envelope.
Full Definition
Total mesorectal excision (TME) is the gold standard surgical approach for mid and low rectal cancers, involving complete excision of the mesorectum (fatty tissue surrounding the rectum containing lymph nodes) while preserving the fascial envelope. This technique significantly improved local recurrence rates and survival outcomes in rectal cancer treatment. TME requires precise dissection in the correct embryological plane between the mesorectal fascia and presacral fascia, often combined with nerve-sparing techniques to preserve genitourinary function.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as TME in surgical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient underwent laparoscopic total mesorectal excision with primary anastomosis." — operative summary
- "Quality assessment of the TME specimen showed complete mesorectal fascia with negative circumferential margins." — pathology report