✦ COLORECTAL SURGERY · RECTAL CANCER

Anterior Resection

Q: What is low anterior resection syndrome?

Following anterior resection, particularly for low rectal cancers, some patients experience altered bowel function including increased frequency and urgency — collectively termed low anterior resection syndrome (LARS). Symptoms often improve over 12–18 months with pelvic floor physiotherapy.

Q: Will I have a permanent stoma?

The majority of patients undergoing anterior resection will not require a permanent stoma. A temporary loop ileostomy is commonly fashioned to protect a low anastomosis and is reversed once healing is confirmed.

Q: How long before normal bowel function returns?

Bowel function after anterior resection varies and depends on the level of the anastomosis. Most patients experience some degree of functional change in the first year, typically improving significantly by 18–24 months.

Sphincter-preserving resection of the rectum with primary anastomosis — for upper and mid rectal cancers.

150–300 Min TREATMENT DURATION

5–8 Days CARE SETTING

Open / Laparoscopic APPROACH

4–6 Weeks RECOVERY TIMELINE

What is Anterior Resection?

Anterior resection is a sphincter-preserving operation for cancer of the upper and mid rectum, and selected cases of sigmoid cancer and diverticular disease. The affected segment of bowel is excised with primary restoration of continuity by a stapled or hand-sewn colorectal anastomosis. Dr. Tagore Mohan Grandhi performs anterior resection with a laparoscopic approach as standard, avoiding a permanent stoma in the majority of patients while achieving complete oncological clearance within a structured enhanced recovery programme.

Indicated for resectable cancers of the upper and mid rectum and sigmoid colon — in patients fit for major colorectal resection with satisfactory sphincter function.

How the Procedure Works

Patient Positioning

Patient placed in modified lithotomy under general anaesthesia. Laparoscopic ports sited. Trendelenburg position with left lateral tilt used for pelvic access.

Mobilisation and Vascular Control

Sigmoid colon and rectum mobilised. Inferior mesenteric artery and vein ligated at a level determined by the oncological requirements.

Mesorectal Excision

Total or partial mesorectal excision performed according to tumour level, with careful sharp dissection preserving the pelvic autonomic nerves.

Distal Division and Anastomosis

Rectum divided with appropriate distal clearance using a laparoscopic linear stapler. Double-stapled circular colorectal anastomosis constructed.

Defunctioning and Recovery

Temporary loop ileostomy fashioned to protect low anastomoses. Enhanced recovery protocol with early oral intake and mobilisation. Ileostomy reversed at 8–12 weeks.

Outcomes

150–300 MinTREATMENT DURATION

5–8 DaysCARE SETTING

Open / LaparoscopicAPPROACH

4–6 WeeksRECOVERY TIMELINE

Who Needs This Treatment?

→Sphincter preservation — avoids permanent colostomy in the majority of patients
→Laparoscopic approach provides equivalent oncological results with reduced morbidity
→Nerve-preserving dissection protects bladder and sexual function
→Enhanced recovery programme minimises hospital stay and accelerates return to normal activity

Anterior resection allows most patients with rectal cancer to retain their bowel continuity and avoid a permanent stoma. With careful technique and modern enhanced recovery, outcomes are excellent and hospital stays are short.

— Dr. Tagore Mohan Grandhi, Senior Consultant Gastrointestinal Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is low anterior resection syndrome?+

Will I have a permanent stoma?+

How long before normal bowel function returns?+

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