[Anterior resection of the rectum for rectal cancer--options, limits, immediate complications]

A number of factors have recently led to a more conservative approach for middle or low rectal cancers, making possible sphincter preservation and reducing the number of abdomino perineal excisions of the rectum. We have performed a retrospective analysis on 510 patients operated on in our unit between 1994 and 2003 for rectal cancer. There were a number of 118 anterior resection of rectum; in 20 cases the TME has been performed and in 6 cases a very low anterior resection of rectum was done. The overall operative morbidity rate was 16.10% in direct relation with the distal limit of resection. We note urinary dysfunctions, anastomotic leakage, recto-vaginal fistulas as immediate postoperative complications. With the practice of total mesorectal excision, the use of abdomino perineal excision of the rectum is decreasing. The use of preoperative radiotherapy can increase the rate of operative morbidity but despite of these, its long-term benefit, is important.