Low Anterior Resection for Rectal Cancer Using Double Stapling Technique

Cho, Cheon Chun; Baek, Moo Jun; Kim, Sung Yong; Lee, Moon Soo; Kim, Hyung Chul; Kim, Chang Ho; Song, Ok Pyung; Park, Hee Ju

Abstract

PURPOSE: Since its introduction by Knight and Griffen in 1980, the double stapling technique has gained widespread popularity in performing the low anterior resection for the rectal cancer. But their effectiveness is not clear. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the usefulness of the low anterior resection using the double stapling technique for rectal cancer in an oncological, technical standpoints.
METHODS
Perioperative and follow up data were retrospectively reviewed in all patients undergoing the low anterior resection using the double stapling technique by same surgeons for rectal cancer over a 2.5 year period.
RESULTS
Thirty two rectal cancer patients had double stapling technique anastomoses. There was no postoperative mortality. Intraoperative complications including rectal wall tearing, incomplete doughnuts, misfiring and extraction related problems occurred in 9 of 32 patients (28.2%). Early and late postoperative complications occurred in 9 (28.8%) and 8 (24.9%) of 32 patients. Early anastomotic leak developed in 1 patient (3.1%) and anastomotic site bleeding developed in 2 patient (6.3%). Lately, the local recurrence occurred in 3 patients (9.3%) and anastomotic site stricture occurred in 3 patients (9.3%).
CONCLUSIONS
The low anterior resection using the double stapling technique has relatively low rate of leakage, stricture, local recurrence. The double stapling technique can be performed for mid or low rectal cancer with greater safety and facility.