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Objective: The aim of this study was to report our experience with endoscopic transanal resection (ETAR) using a urologic resectoscope for palliative treatment of rectal carcinoma., Methods: Outcome in patients who underwent ETAR with a urologic resectoscope between October 1992 and March 1999 are reported., Results: The 60 ETAR procedures were performed in 37 patients (19 men and 18 women, median age 82 years). Morbidity was 10% (6 patients) and mortality was 2.7% (1 patient). Median hospital stay for the procedure was 5 days. Symptom control was achieved in 86% of the patients (40% partial control, 46% complete control). Colostomy was performed in 8 patients 7 months after ETAR. At study end, 4 patients were alive. Median survival was 14 months (range 0 - 62). The 1-, 2-, and 5-year survival rates were 54, 32 and 5%, respectively., Conclusion: ETAR is a simple, minimally invasive and economical method for palliative treatment of patients with rectal carcinoma. ETAR is a useful addition to the surgeon's armamentarium.