An improved technique for low anterior resection using a PDS endoloop

We describe herein the results of performing a new technique of low anterior resection of the rectum using a PDS endoloop, on ten patients with rectal cancer. This technique involves first preparing the rectosigmoid colon with an anvil as in the conventional low anterior resection; then, after the stapler is inserted transanally, two endoloops are solid over the colon and rectum. The rectum is ligated by pushing the knot of the endoloop and a second knot is applied 2 cm proximal to the first. Finally, the rectum is cut and the stapler is closed and fired to make a circular end-to-end anastomosis. The level of the anastomosis ranged from 2.5 to 6 cm with a mean of 4.7 cm in the ten patients, only one of whom developed a minor anastomotic leakage postoperatively. Moreover, no patient has developed local recurrence or distant metastasis to date. In summary, this technique offers certain advantages that allow the operation to be done with more skill and safety in a narrow pelvis.