Abstract
Total pelvic exenteration is defined as en bloc removal of all pelvic organs, ie distal colon with total or partial removal of the rectum, urinary bladder, distal ureters, pelvic peritoneum, part of the perineum and lymphatic system, with or without resection of the internal iliac arteries. In men the prostate and the seminal vesicles are removed and sometimes in women the internal genitals are removed with vulvectomy.
The aim is to remove all malignant tumor tissues, including the adjacent organs and regional lymphatics.