Laparoscopic sphincter‐preserving surgery for low rectal tumor using prolapsing technique

Introduction: With this study, we aimed to assess the feasibility and outcome of laparoscopy‐assisted low anterior resection with a prolapsing technique for low rectal tumors. Materials and Methods: We studied surgical techniques, recovery status, complications, oncological clearance and the results of short‐term follow‐up in 15 patients who had received laparoscopy‐assisted low anterior resection with a prolapsing technique for low rectal tumors between October 2005 and January 2008. Results: None of the cases was converted to open surgery. The mean operation time was 185 min (150–232 min), and the mean blood loss was 75 ml (25–105 ml). The mean time for passage of flatus, duration of urinary drainage, and postoperative hospital stay were 3 d (1–4 d), 6 d (5–10 d) and 11 d (7–20 d), respectively. The total amount of lymph nodes harvested was 15 (9–21), and the mean distal margin from the tumor was 2.5 cm (1.0–3.9 cm). No major complications were observed. The mean follow‐up time was 13 months (4–27 months). Neither local recurrence nor metastasis was observed. Acceptable anal function results were obtained in most patients. Discussion: Laparoscopy‐assisted low anterior resection with a prolapsing technique can be successfully performed.