ObjectiveTo summarize the progress of surgical treatment of colorectal cancer in recent years from the anatomical features of the mesorectum, aiming to provide a new basis for surgical treatment of colorectal cancer. MethodThe relevant literatures about total mesorectal excision and complete mesocolic excision in colorectal cancer surgery in recent years were reviewed. ResultsTotal mesorectal excision and complete mesocolic excision significantly reduced the local recurrence rate of patients with colorectal cancer, improved the tumor-free survival rate and overall survival rate, and significantly improved the prognosis of patients, which may benefited from the surgeon’s detailed anatomy of mesenteric plane. In addition, based on current evidence, total mesorectal excision for colorectal cancer was safe and had fewer postoperative complications, which helped to promote the standardization of surgical treatment of colorectal cancer. ConclusionsTotal mesorectal excision and complete mesocolic excision can significantly improve histopathological prognosis compared with conventional surgery, but the advantages of long-term oncological prognosis need further study. In recent years, the combination of new techniques such as laparoscopy, robotic surgery and natural lumens, and mesenteric resection has provided new directions and new ways for surgical treatment of colorectal cancer.