OBJECTIVETo study surgical treatment of postoperative stricture of anastomosis for lower rectal cancer.

METHODSThe data of 9 cases who were diagnosed as postoperative stricture of anastomosis after operation of intersphincteric resection for lower rectal cancer during January 2008 to June 2011 were analyzed retrospectively. Transanal excision of stricture were used in 3 cases diagnosed as membranous stricture. Transanal radial incision of stricture were used in 5 cases diagnosed as tubulous stricture. Biologic patch was used to repair the defect of the posterior wall of rectum after excision of severe stricture in 1 case.

RESULTSAll 9 cases of postoperative stricture of anastomosis were cured by surgery. Anal dilation were performed every day by patients themselves after discharge. Digital examination showed that 1 to 2 fingers could pass through the anastomosis after operation. The patient whose rectal defect was repaired by biological patch underwent colonoscopy examination two weeks after operation. Colonoscopy showed that the biological patch had been filled with granulation and integrated into the surrounding intestinal tissue. All patients defecated without difficulty and the anal function of all patients was good after restoration of intestinal continuity.

CONCLUSIONAggressive surgery, combining with the use of biological patch if necessary is an effective therapy of postoperative stricture of anastomosis for lower rectal cancer.