Dear Colleagues,

Transanal Minimally Invasive Surgery (TAMIS) has become part of the standard toolkit for treating benign and early malignant rectal tumours, and its range of indications keeps growing. Alongside classic full-thickness rectal wall excision, partial-thickness techniques (submucosal and intramuscular dissection) now play a growing role. TAMIS also offers new options for managing complications, such as early and chronic low rectal anastomotic leaks. These procedures are technically demanding and need dedicated training.

At the Semmelweis University Department of Surgery, Transplantation and Gastroenterology (STéG), we consider it our mission to play an active role in TAMIS training in Hungary and the region. In 2025 we held a course with lectures and live surgery. In 2026 we added hands-on training. Both courses received very positive feedback.

Based on this feedback, the 2027 course on 20–21 May 2027 will be extended to two days:

• Day 1 – Live surgery and lectures: live cases broadcast from the robotic OR. The focus is on proactive management of low anastomotic leaks, advanced TAMIS indications (chronic leak, presacral cavity clearance, re-anastomosis) and intramuscular TAMIS.
• Day 2 – Hands-on training: small-group practice of full-thickness excision and of intramuscular and submucosal dissection, guided by experienced expert mentors.

The course is organised in line with ESCP standards and is accredited for both Oftex and CME credits.

The course is aimed at surgeons from the region who already have some experience with TAMIS, and at young colleagues starting their learning curve in transanal surgery. Places for the hands-on session are limited.

Dr. Balázs Bánky PhD, Dr. Roel Hompes PhD