Fig. 2.

a Schematic illustration of the anatomic plane for complete mesocolic excision (CME) in right-sided hemicolectomy. b Crucial intraoperative step for CME in right-sided hemicolectomy. Mesocolon and mesoileum have to be mobilized along Toldt's fascia to the duodenum and lower edge of the pancreas. The vascular trunks of the middle (transverse) colon and ileal artery/vein are the dissection margins to the left. c Crucial intraoperative step for CME in sigmoid resection hemicolectomy. The inferior mesenteric vein should be divided at the lower edge of the pancreas (triangles); the left superior marginal vein may be preserved for improved venous drainage of the relocated descending colon and left colic flexure. Note that the pancreas is still covered by the mesenteric section of the transverse colon.