A systematic review of oncosurgical and quality of life outcomes following pelvic exenteration for locally advanced and recurrent rectal cancer
2025

Outcomes of Pelvic Exenteration for Rectal Cancer

Sample size: 5489 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Maudsley J, Clifford RE, Aziz O, Sutton PA

Primary Institution: Colorectal and Peritoneal Oncology Centre, Christie NHS Foundation Trust, UK

Hypothesis

What are the long-term oncosurgical and quality of life outcomes following pelvic exenteration for locally advanced and recurrent rectal cancer?

Conclusion

Pelvic exenteration is safe with a good chance of R0 resection and acceptable mortality rates, but high morbidity rates highlight the need for shared decision-making.

Supporting Evidence

  • 25 papers reported outcomes for 5,489 patients.
  • R0 resection rates ranged from 23.2% to 98.4%.
  • Overall morbidity rates were between 17.8% and 87.0%.
  • The median survival ranged from 12.5 to 140.0 months.
  • Only four studies reported quality of life outcomes.

Takeaway

Pelvic exenteration is a surgery for advanced rectal cancer that can help patients live longer, but it can also cause a lot of problems afterward.

Methodology

A systematic review of studies reporting long-term outcomes following pelvic exenteration for rectal cancer, adhering to PRISMA guidelines.

Potential Biases

All studies included in the review had a high risk of bias.

Limitations

High risk of bias in included studies and significant heterogeneity in reported outcomes.

Participant Demographics

Median age ranged from 45.0 to 72.5 years; predominantly male participants (57%).

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1308/rcsann.2023.0031

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication