How to Optimize Autonomic Nerve Preservation in Total Mesorectal Excision: Clinical Topography and Morphology of Pelvic Nerves and Fasciae

摘要

Urogenital dysfunction after rectal and pelvic surgery was significantly decreased with the introduction of nerve-preserving dissection and total mesorectal excision (TME). Profound topographic knowledge of the pelvic connective tissue spaces is indispensable for identification and preservation of autonomic pelvic nerves. The purpose of this cadaver study was to highlight the course of important autonomous nerve structures and to identify potential injury sites.