Evaluating the result of sphincteric-preserving surgery (Parks procedure) for low rectal cancer

Abstract

Sphincter-preserving surgery for low rectal cancer improved the quality of life while maintaining the oncologic outcomes. A retrospective, descriptive study was conducted with 45 patients who underwent sphincter-preserving surgery for low rectal cancer at the National Cancer Hospital and Hanoi Medical University Hospital between January 2016 and April 2020. The mean age was 55.6 years old. Male: female ratio = 0.7:1. Nearly all patients presented with hematochezia (95.6%). 75.6% of the tumors are located within 4-6 cm from the anal verge. The anastomotic leak rate was 4.4%. All patients had a normal postoperative urinary function. The sexual dysfunction rate was low (15.8%) and reversible. None had erectile or ejaculation dysfunction. 97.8% satisfied with sphincter function after one year. Tumors located > 4 cm and the anastomosis sites located > 2 cm from the anal verge were good prognostic factors for the recovery of sphincter function (p < 0.05). The Parks procedure had optimistic postoperative outcomes with a low complication rate, minimal sexual dysfunction, and good sphincter function in long-term follow-up.