[Reconstruction of anal function after abdomino-perineal resection]

After abdomino-perineal resection for rectal cancer, most surgeons believe that colostomy is necessary after anal function is abolished and that patients are satisfied with this. Recently, reconstruction of anal function has been performed using new surgical techniques such as creation of an artificial sphincter, dynamic graciloplasty, gluteoplasty with pudendal nerve anastomosis, and smooth muscle implanted neoanus. However, most surgeons do not have sufficient knowledge of reconstruction of anal function. Since all reconstruction methods are associated with low mortality and morbidity rates, and can be converted to conventional colostomy when required, surgeons must consider first-line reconstruction of anal function after resection of the anal sphincter.