What procedure is typically performed for low rectal cancer?

For low rectal cancer, the procedure that is typically performed is an anterior resection with total mesorectal excision (TME) and colorectal anastomosis. This approach is aimed at achieving a curative resection of the cancer while maintaining bowel continuity.

Anterior resection is particularly suitable for tumors located in the upper or mid-rectum, but for low rectal cancers, TME is crucial. TME involves the meticulous dissection of the rectum along with the surrounding fatty tissue, known as the mesorectum, which contains lymphatics and blood vessels associated with the rectum. This technique significantly reduces the risk of local recurrence by allowing for the complete removal of cancerous tissue and its lymphatic drainage.

Following TME, colorectal anastomosis is performed, which connects the remaining part of the colon to the anus after the cancerous segment has been removed. This allows for the preservation of normal bowel function, which is an important consideration in the treatment of rectal cancer.

In contrast, options like colostomy, full colectomy, and right hemicolectomy are less appropriate because they do not specifically address low rectal cancer while aiming to maintain bowel continuity. Colostomy is generally reserved for more