Recent progress in pelvic exenteration includes the use of continent intestinal reservoirs (e.g. Kock, Indiana and Mainz pouch) instead of the ileal conduit (Bricker), use of myocutaneous flaps to cover the vulvar or perineal defect, better knowledge of the long term side effects of intestinal reservoirs and conduits, and suggestions for new indications such as pelvic sidewall relapse of cervical carcinoma with palliative or even curative intent