Sphincter-Saving Resections

It is now generally agreed that carcinomas of the upper third, even half of the rectum can be satisfactorily treated by sphincter-saving excision in the form of anterior resections (1). But, when we turn to the use of sphincter-saving removal for carcinomas of the middle and lower rectum, considerable controversy is encountered because several methods are available and there are sharp differences of opinion as to their relative merits and roles (1).