Objective To investigate the down stage effect and long-term results of preoperative chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced lower rectal adenocarcinoma. Methods From Jan. 1989 to Jul 1999, 103 patients suffering from lower rectal carcinoma were treated. Criteria entry: 1. Distance between anal verge and centre of tumor 4-8?cm(median 6.2?cm), 2. Uncertainty in decision of preservation of anus before admission, 3. Lesion belonged to locally advanced type, 4. definitive pathology, clinical stage and presence of objective observation of tumor extent, 5. Performance status proposed by Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group 0-2, 6. Age0.05), 25.5% and 48.5% (P