Comparison of Sphincter Preservation Surgery and Abdominoperineal Resection (APR): Prospective Clinical Trial

Overview

Sphincter preservation surgery in low rectal cancer has been increased due to better understanding of tumor biology and advances in surgical technology. Furthermore, a majority of patients prefer sphincter preservation rather than living with permanent colostomy. But it is not clear whether sphincter preservation is directly related with better quality of life. There have been many studies comparing sphincter preservation surgery and abdominoperineal resection in many aspects including oncologic and functional outcomes, and the quality of life. However, the conclusion remains controversial because of the different results between studies.

This prospective study was designed to compare the quality of life after sphincter saving surgery and abdominoperineal resection. Because of ethical issues, it is difficult to conduct as a randomized trial. On the basis of tumor location, extent, and preoperative anal function, patient will be attributed to two different operative method groups. On the assumption that 10% of the patients are lost to follow-up at 1 year, at least 74 patients undergoing APR and 220 patients undergoing SPS will be recruited. The study will be continued until the target sample size will be achieved.

Conditions