Abstract

Aim The clinical burden of pelvic exenteration (PE) for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) is nationally under‐reported. The widespread use of pelvic MRI since 2005 has increased the accuracy of local staging and awareness of the need for ‘beyond TME (total mesorectal excision)’ surgery. The aim of this study was to assess the volume of patients undergoing PE within England, which factors affected survival outcomes and whether the use of MRI has influenced these outcomes. Method The volume of patients undergoing PE and associated survival outcomes across England between 1995 and 2016 was evaluated from Public Health England Hospital Episode Statistics data. Results A total of 2996 patients were recorded as undergoing PE. The 5‐year overall survival rate improved after 2005 compared with prior to 2005 (61.7% vs. 37%, p < 0.001), with no significant difference between cancer registries throughout England. After 2005, the volume of patients undergoing PE and undergoing preoperative MRI increased, as did the number of non‐T4 cancers operated on. After 2005, age, preoperative MRI and preoperative radiotherapy were the significant factors influencing 5‐year overall survival on multivariate analysis. Conclusion This review of national data confirms that PE outcomes are under‐reported. MRI staging aids with the identification of patients suitable for perioperative treatment, surgery or palliation and facilitates treatment planning. Since 2005, MRI, likely in combination with advances in surgery and perioperative treatment, has improved survival outcomes. It is imperative that detailed information from patients with LARC undergoing PE is captured and reported in order to optimize care and future service provision.