The risk factors and prevention of recurrences in rectal surgery

The authors report their own experience of 34 patients operated on for rectal cancer. In 8 cases abdomino perineal resection and in 26 anterior resection with anastomoses (6 in second time) were performed. Operatory mortality was nil and with an average follow up of 34 months 5 local recurrences were observed 16%. Among the risk factors examined the most important seems to be the stage of the disease; imperative it is therefore a correct surgical approach which warranted a significant reduction of local recurrences. This surgical approach includes a safety distal clearance from the tumour (at least 2.5 cm.), radical lymphadenectomy and complete removal of the mesorectum.