The pull-through and double stapling technique for sphincter preservation operation in super-low rectal carcinoma:a report of 46 cases

Objective To evaluate the effect of pull-through and double stapling technique for sphincter preservation operation in super-low rectal carcinoma.Methods The resection through pull-through and double stapling technique for sphincter preservation approach was performed on 46 patients with super-low rectal carcinoma from December 1997 to December 2005.The distance between the anal verge and the lower margin of the tumor was 4～ 7 cm(averaged 5.5 cm),including 26 patients in Dukes A stage,16 Dukes B and 4 Dukes C.Results Fecal continences were preserved successfully in all patients.Only one got anastomosis leak(2.2%)after operation,and 4 cases had anastomotic narrowing(8.7%)within 1 year.At a median follow-up of 54 months,two patients had local recurrences(4.3%).The 5 year survival rate was 81.3%.There was no urinary dysfunction in this series.The successful rates of sexual function after surgery were respectively as follows:man 82.4% and woman 83.3%.Conclusions Pull-through and double stapling technique for sphinceter preservation operation was feasible and safe,provide a original operative style for super-low rectal carcinoma.