[Anterior resection with colo-anal anastomosis for low rectal cancer]

Between May 1989 and April 1993 we treated 108 patients, aged 44-82 years, for rectal cancer. Of them, 7 men and 2 women underwent anterior resection with colo-anal anastomosis. In this group the average distance of the tumor from the anal verge was 6 cm. Follow-up ranged from 12-48 months. There was no operative mortality. Perioperative morbidity included wound infection in 1 patient and pelvic sepsis in another; temporary disturbances in micturition occurred in 4; 1 developed an anastomotic stricture and another intestinal obstruction; 1 died of systemic spread; another was reoperated and salvaged, but had a local recurrence 3 years after the first operation. Continence was achieved in 6, while 3 had minor impairment of control. Frank incontinence did not occur. We believe that anterior resection with colo-anal anastomosis in low rectal cancer avoids a permanent colostomy, while meeting oncological and functional criteria. We advocate this procedure in selected patients with low rectal cancer.