STUDY This is a randomized, multicenter study. All patients undergo resection of rectal cancer with a low anterior resection with anastomoses within 10cm of the anal verge and diverting ileostomy. Patients will undergo three endoscopies: one intra-operative endoscopy (POD0) and two post-operative endoscopies (POD3-7, POD12-28) (POD = post-operative day). During the SES procedure, the anastomosis will be lavaged with saline, the fluid will be collected by suction, images will be taken and then the anastomosis will be lavaged with either saline or an antibiotic solution composed of metronidazole, ciprofloxacin and neomycin. Patients' clinical courses will be followed through chart review for 6 to 7 months following surgery.