Alterations in anorectal function after anterior resection for cancer of the rectum.

We have evaluated by means of a clinical and functional study the alterations in anorectal function of a group of 50 consecutive patients who have undergone an anterior resection of the rectum. Results are correlated with the anastomosis location and the time passed after the operation. According to research data this operation changes the patient's defaecation habits and the manometric and radiological parameters of anorectal function. These alterations are more evident in patients with a low anastomosis. The qualitative characteristics of defaecation did not change significantly in relation to the time passed since operation. However, there was a significant increase in compliance 6 months after operation, and the threshold rectal volume and the maximum tolerated volume also showed a significant increase 12 months following operation.