Laparoscopic transabdominal ultra-low anastomosis for rectal cancer: experience of 54 cases / 中国肿瘤临床

ABSTRACT

Objectives: To evaluate the safety and feasibility of ultra-low anastomosis for anal preservation in laparoscopic rectal can-cer surgery. Methods: The clinical data of 54 patients with low rectal cancer admitted to The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University from July 2014 to June 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. The short-term effect and complications were analyzed. Results:All patients underwent successful operations; conversion to laparotomy or death was not observed in any of the patients. The mean operative time was (165 ± 31) minutes, and the intraoperative bleeding volume was (12 ± 5) mL. There was no prophylactic ileostomy in all patients. Postoperative anastomotic bleeding and anastomotic leakage occurred in 2 and 3 cases, respectively; these complica-tions were managed with conservative treatment. Postoperative urination and sexual functions of the patients remained good, and most patients were satisfied with their anal function 1 year post-operation. No local recurrences or deaths were noted after follow-up for more than 2 years. However, liver metastases were detected in 3 patients 1 year post-surgery. Conclusions: Laparoscopic transab-dominal ultra-low anastomosis for rectal cancer has a good short-term effect; however, the long-term effect remains to be evaluated.