Complications of surgical excision of rectum

Surgical excision of all or part of the rectum remains a formidable technical challenge for the surgeon and a source of substantial morbidity and mortality for the patient. Most complications are avoidable by meticulous attention to the technical details in the performance of the operation. However, even in the best of circumstances, these procedures are accompanied by complications. An understanding of the mechanisms of these complications combined with a realistic approach to their diagnosis and solution will minimize the impact on ultimate results.