Modified Kraske Procedure for Retrorectal Tumors Decreases Surgical Site Infection Rate: A Single Center Experience

Objective The aim of this study is to evaluate the early postoperative morbidity rates with a particular focus on surgical site infection rates, in patients undergoing resection for retrorectal tumors with the modified Kraske Procedure. Methods This retrospective single-center study included patients who underwent resection for retrorectal tumors performing the modified Kraske Procedure between August 2006 and August 2025. Patients with recurrent disease or a history of pelvic radiotherapy or chemotherapy were excluded. The primary outcome was early postoperative morbidity, especially in terms of surgical site infections, which was defined as complications occurring within the first 30 days after surgery. Results Among 35 patients operated for retrorectal tumors, 23 (65.7%) underwent a resection performing the modified Kraske Procedure and were included in the analysis. The majority of patients were female (82.6%), with a mean age of 40.3 ± 15.8 years. The mean tumor size was 42.5 ± 10.0 mm, and most lesions were benign (87%). Postoperative complications occurred in three patients (13%), with surgical site infection observed in only one patient (4.4%). The mean length of hospital stay was 3.8 ± 1.9 days. Conclusion The modified Kraske Procedure appears to be a safe and effective surgical option for retrorectal tumors, offering the advantages of the standard Kraske procedure with a low surgical site infection rate.