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TaTME is a new approach to rectal cancer surgery, using an abdominal together with a transanal approach. One of the main potential benefits is achieving a higher quality TME, and therefore theoretically improved long-term outcomes. However, a Norwegian study showed an unexpected pattern of early and aggressive locoregional recurrence after TaTME. These unfavorable oncological outcomes may result from a lack of experience during the initial phase of the learning curve. Thus, in-depth research is required to avoid risks that may discredit a surgery that seems to bring benefits to selected patients. Several RCTs such as the COLOR III trial are currently recruiting. However, the results of the COLOR III trial are not expected for the next five or six years, and the surgical community is in strong need of oncologic data.
In this open classroom we will review what has been published in the last 2 years.