OBJECTIVETo assess the feasibility of laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (TME) for low or ultralow anterior resection of rectal cancer.

METHODSExcision of the mesorectum and low (ultralow) colo-anal anastomoses were performed laparoscopically in 62 patients with low rectal cancer based on the concept of TME and double stapling technique (DST).

RESULTSSixty-two operations with TME and DST were performed in a totally laparoscopic manner, and only one was converted to open procedures because of dysfunction of coagulation. The operative time was 125 min (110-210 min) and the operative blood loss 20 ml (5-80 ml). The time for bowel function recovery and post-operatively dietary intake was 1-2 days. Twenty-eight patients received postoperative analgesics. Average hospital stay was 8 days (5-14 days). Complications were observed in only 2 of the 62 patients, one had suffered from urinary retention and the other, anastomotic leakage.

CONCLUSIONSTotally laparoscopic excision of the mesorectum for low or ultralow anterior resection of rectal cancer is a minimally invasive technique with sphincter preservation, less postoperative pain, and rapid recovery.