Revisiting rectosacral and Waldeyer's fascia by a laparoscopic or a robotic approach – a video vignette

During the clinical practice of total mesorectal excision (TME) for the treatment of middle and low rectal cancer, posterior mobilisation of the rectum is along the holy plane, which consists of loose areolar connective tissues [1]. With further posterior downward mobilisation, a thick tough fascia will be encountered, generally known as rectosacral fascia, and failure to recognise and divide the rectosacral fascia can perforate the mesorectum or lead to severe presacral haemorrhage. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.