Aim of surgery in carcinoma rectum is: March 2010: (A) Limited excision of the rectum, (B) Sacrificing gastrointestinal continuity, (C) Preserving the anal sphincter, (D) Preserving mesorectum
Answer is C. Ans. C: Preserving the anal sphincter Principles of surgical treatment for colorectal cancer: Radical excision of the rectum together with the mesorectum and associated lymph nodes Restore gastrointestinal continuity Preserve continence by preserving the anal sphincter. A sphincter saving operation (anterior resection) is usually possible for tumours whose lower margin is two or more centimeters above the anal canal.