Objective To evaluate autonomic nerve preserving extended operation (ANPEO) for rectal cancer in the protection of postoperative urinary and male sexual functions.[WT5”HZ]Methods [WT5”BZ] 80 Dukes B and C cases underwent ANPEO for rectal cancer, including 10 cases with unilateral ANPEO. Result was compared with that of 25 cases undergoing traditional extended radical operation. [WT5”HZ] Result [WT5”BZ] Among 70 cases with bilateral ANPEO and 10 cases with unilateral ANPEO normal postoperative erectile was maintained in 97 1% vs 70%, ejaculatory functions in 92 9% vs 50%, ability of sexual intercourse in 91% vs 40%, and orgasm in 88 5% vs 40% respectively. In 25 cases without ANPEO extended operation sexual functions were all lost. 3/80 cases with ANPEO suffered temporary urinary dysfunction, 23/25 cases without ANPEO suffered temporary urinary dysfunction and 7 with long term dysfunction [WT5”HZ]Conclusions [WT5”BZ] ANPEO is effective to reduce the postoperative urinary and sexual dysfunction while maintaining the radical cure for the cancer.