ObjectiveTo evaluate the indication for and postoperative complication of double stapling procedure for low rectal cancer operation.MethodsTumor recurrence and postoperative complications were retrospectively analyzed in 146 cases receiving low rectal cancer resection, from Nov. 1997 to Nov. 2000 in our hospital. ResultsCancer recurred postoperatively in 2 cases. There were 2 cases suffering from anastomotic fistula (1.4%), and 8 cases from anastomotic stenosis (5 4%). Anastomotic hemorrhage developed in 4 cases (2 7%). ConclusionThe indication of Dixon procedure for low rectal carcinoma could be broadened by the use of double stapler not at the expense of radical cure of the cancer.