Retroileal colorectal anastomosis after left-sided or transverse colectomy for advanced serous carcinoma of the ovary or uterus

•In advanced or recurrent ovarian and uterine cancer, the ability to achieve optimal cytoreduction is a prognostic factor.•Colonic resections are commonly required to achieve minimal or no residual disease.•The retroileal technique can be used to achieve complete gross resection in cytoreductive surgery for gynecologic malignancy.•Lack of postoperative complications and acceptable time interval to return of bowel function suggest this technique is safe.