Anterior Resection of the Rectum

What Is Anterior Resection of the Rectum Surgery?

Anterior resection of the rectum surgery (also known as low anterior resection surgery or LAR) is a procedure used to treat the rectum, typically after the patient has suffered from rectal cancer or some similar ailment.  LAR is especially popular when cancer has affected the upper two-thirds of the rectum.  Some stage I and most stage II or II rectal cancers occur close to where the rectum connects with the colon in the upper two thirds of the rectum.  During low anterior resection surgery, surgeons attempt to remove the cancerous tumor without affecting the anus.  The colon is attached to the anus allowing waste to leave the body in the normal manner. 

Laxatives and enemas are administered before a low anterior resection surgery to clean out the bowels.  The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and the surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen to remove the cancerous tissue and fatty deposits.  The colon is then reattached to the rectum.  After a low anterior resection surgery a colostomy is usually not necessary.