Comparison of laparoscopic lateral lymph node dissection for rectal cancer with and without routine resection of the visceral branches of internal iliac artery

Purpose This study aimed to explore the safety and feasibility of the modified lateral lymph node dissection (LLND) with routine resection of the visceral branches of internal iliac vessels (IIVs) for mid‐low‐lying rectal cancer. Materials and Method Consecutive patients undergoing LLND for rectal cancer were divided into the routine visceral branches of the IIVs resection group (RVR group) and the NRVR group (without routine resection). The main outcomes were postoperative complications and the number of lateral lymph nodes harvested. Results From 2012 to 2021, a total of 75 and 57 patients were included in the RVR and NRVR group, respectively. The operative time was reduced in the RVR group (p = 0.020). No significant difference was observed between the two groups for the incidence of total, major, or minor postoperative complications. Pathologically confirmed LLNM were 24 (32%) patients in the RVR group and 12 (21.1%) in the NRVR group (p = 0.162). The number of lateral lymph nodes harvested had no significant difference between two groups (11 vs. 12, p = 0.329). Conclusion LLND with routine resection of visceral branches of IIVs is safe and feasible, which brings no major complication or long‐term urinary disorder.