CANCER OF THE RECTUM - AN UPDATE 3 YEARS AFTER THE CONSENSUS CONFERENCE

Substantial advances in surgical technique and adjuvant treatments for this common cancer usually allow to preserve sphincter function witho ut violating the rules of oncologic surgery. Sexual function is usuall y preserved, except in patients with locally advanced tumors. There is sound evidence that complete removal of the rectal mesentery and loca l radiation therapy decrease the rate of local recurrences. The qualit y of functional results after distal colorectal versus coloanal anasto mosis is compared and the contribution to patient comfort of construct ion of a reservoir is evaluated.