A novel technique for large colorectal specimen retrieval after endoscopic submucosal dissection: anoscope-assisted tumor extraction by defecation

Colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has emerged as the gold standard for treating extensive superficial colorectal neoplasms, allowing the en bloc excision of particularly large lesions [1] [2]. Preserving the integrity of the specimen ensures an optimal histopathological evaluation can be performed. Lesions up to 6 cm are typically retrieved using a basket net; with larger specimens, traditional devices often prove insufficient, making extraction without damage challenging.

To address this challenge, various research groups have developed innovative techniques. Among these, Fukita et al. [3] proposed using an anoscope to facilitate specimen extraction, after it had been grasped using a retrieval net. Another notable method is the tumor extraction by defecation (TED) technique [4], where the specimen is expelled transanally via the Valsalva maneuver performed by the patient. In the first approach, the techniqueʼs effectiveness is limited by the size of the retrieval net, as an incomplete grasp may result in specimen damage. In the second method, the patientʼs ability to generate sufficient contractile force for specimen expulsion may be impaired, particularly following prolonged sedation.

We have developed a novel and efficient technique for retrieving large specimens, namely the anoscope-assisted tumor extraction by defecation (AA-TED) method, which combines the benefits of the Valsalva maneuver and anoscope-assisted retrieval ([Video 1]). At the end of the resection procedure, an anoscope is inserted into the rectum, followed by reinsertion of the endoscope and saline irrigation. The patient then performs the Valsalva maneuver. The resulting increase in intra-abdominal pressure, along with the anoscope-induced reduction in resistance of the internal and external anal sphincters, enables passage of the specimen through the anal canal ([Fig. 1]).

Removal of a large colorectal lesion resected by endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) using the anoscope-assisted tumor extraction by defecation (AA-TED) technique showing lubrication and insertion of the anoscope, the specimen in the anoscope during the Valsalva maneuver, and its subsequent extraction.Video 1

Fig. 1 Images from the removal of a large colorectal lesion by endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) using the anoscope-assisted tumor extraction by defecation (AA-TED) technique showing: a a laterally spreading tumor of granular nodular mixed type in the lower rectum involving the dentate line; b photograph of the anoscope; c appearance of the lesion in the anoscope during the Valsalva maneuver; d the extracted specimen in the anoscope; e macroscopic appearance of the resected specimen.

In two consecutive cases involving large lesions (mean maximum diameter of 88 mm), we successfully employed this technique after the failure of both conventional retrieval nets and the TED technique. Based on this experience, we consider AA-TED to be a useful method for retrieving large colorectal lesions following ESD.

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Conflict of Interest

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Acknowledgement

We gratefully acknowledge the support and expertise of the nursing team of the Digestive Endoscopy Unit at the University Hospital of Parma, whose dedication significantly contributed to this work.

• References

• 1 Pimentel-Nunes P, Dinis-Ribeiro M, Ponchon T. et al. Endoscopic submucosal dissection: European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) Guideline. Endoscopy 2015; 47: 829-854
• 2 Yamamoto H, Kawata H, Sunada K. et al. Successful en-bloc resection of large superficial tumors in the stomach and colon using sodium hyaluronate and small-caliber-tip transparent hood. Endoscopy 2003; 35: 690-694
• 3 Fukita Y, Takeda T, Toyomizu M. et al. A novel retrieval method using a Cusco speculum for large colorectal resection specimens following endoscopic treatment. Endoscopy 2016; 48: E336-E337
• 4 Nemoto D, Hayashi Y, Utano K. et al. A novel retrieval technique for large colorectal tumors resected by endoscopic submucosal dissection: tumor extraction by defecation. Endosc Int Open 2016; 4: E93-E95

Publication History

Article published online:
14 August 2025