[Use of an anorectal driving device in the sphincter-saving operation for low rectal carcinoma]

The anastomosis with tubular anastomotic instrument for the surgical resection of the low rectal carcinoma with preserved anus is difficult to perform because of the deep location of the tumor and retraction of the paraproctium to the pelvic floor. From 1986 a self-made anorectal driving device was applied to facilitate anastomosis with the tubular anastomotic instrument. Ninety-six cases of low rectal carcinoma were so treated in 1986-1990. Eighty-five cases in 1980-1985 treated by tubular anastomosis without the use of the driving device served as the control. The success rate of anastomosis increased from 45.9% to 77.1% (P < 0.01), incidence of anastomotic fistula decreased from 11.6% to 3.1% (P < 0.01), the average operation time was reduced from 211 to 183 minutes (P < 0.01).

The pelvic and anoretal tissue can be pushed upwards by this device, which facillitates complete dissection of the tumor and anastamosis by tubular anastomotic instrument.