Overview
TransAnal Minimally Invasive Surgery (TAMIS) is a new technique used to remove tumors from the rectum. TAMIS removes tumors faster than traditional surgeries and with less pain during recovery and a quicker return to normal activity. The procedure is completed in about an hour, and the patient is often discharged from the hospital within 24 hours.
Benefits of TAMIS include:
- Minimally invasive
- Less operative time
- Faster recovery
- Reduced pain after surgery
Conditions Treated
TAMIS was developed to treat:
- Cancerous tumors in the rectum
- Benign tumors in the rectum
What is TEM and TAMIS?
Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) and transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS) are similar techniques that allow surgeons to remove benign polyps and early stage cancers without the use of invasive surgery.
More about TEM
Developed in the 1980s, TEM was created to enable surgeons to remove polyps and tumors in the rectum using a port placed through the rectum and a microscopic lens. This technology has demonstrated precise excision of polyps and tumors with preservation of anal sphincter muscle control.
More about TAMIS
TAMIS was developed in 2009 and has been utilized for the same indications as TEM.
What is the difference between TEM and TAMIS?
The primary difference between the two techniques is that a resterilized, reusable port is used for TEM, while a disposable port is used for TAMIS.
What are the benefits of TEM and TAMIS?
Many benefits have been noted for patients undergoing TEM and TAMIS: no visible incisions, decreased postoperative pain, faster recovery, and a shorter hospital stay. Some patients will even be discharged home the day of surgery.
Not all patients are candidates for minimally invasive surgery due to prior surgical history, overall fitness for surgery, and stage of cancer. Discuss with your surgeon if you are a candidate for minimally invasive surgery and which approach is appropriate for you.