[Local excision of rectal tumors: Y. Mason's operation]

Twenty-nine patients with cancer of the low rectum were treated by local excision performed by a transsphincteric approach (Mason's operation). Patient's selection requires a careful digital examination, biopsy, CT or MR and intraluminal ultrasound. In our series an accurate and strictly selection provides low recurrence rates with no mortality and low postoperative complications. Mason's operation, when criteria for appropriate patients selection are followed, is a valid alternative to mayor surgical procedures as APR.