The lithotomy-Trendelenburg position for restorative resection by stapling and abdominoperineal excision of the rectum.

The introduction of stapling for anterior resection of the rectum has made the use of the lithotomy-Trendelenburg position almost mandatory in the surgical treatment of cancer of the rectum. Use of this position allows the surgeon to choose, after initial dissection, which of the two principal procedures (abdominoperineal excision or restorative resection) to perform, regardless of the procedure originally planned. This can be done without altering or modifying the chosen procedure in any way. The authors describe the proper placement of all special equipment used and the sequence of steps for correct positioning and draping of the patient.