Outcomes in the surgical treatment of low rectal cancer: Does neoadjuvant treatment equalize results?

Abstract

Background: The choice of operation for potentially curable cancer of the low rectum (≤6cm from the anal verge) is usually between ultra low anterior resection (ULAR) or abdominal perineal excision (APE). Numerous studies have suggested improved results with ULAR. Methods: This study was a retrospective review of prospectively collected data for a series of patients undergoing surgical treatment for low rectal cancer at three Melbourne hospitals. The patient details and outcomes were compared between those undergoing APE and ULAR. Results: One hundred and ninety-eight of 213 patients with potentially curable low rectal cancer were treated by either ULAR (n = 82) or APE (n = 116). Overall sur..