Anterior resection of the rectum--a simplified stapling technique.

The use of a double stapling technique in anterior resection of the rectum eliminates the necessity for a rectal stump pursestring and removes the problem of tissue pouting on the spindle of the circular EEA stapler when a voluminous rectum is pulled onto it with the pursestring. We have used this technique in 20 patients with tumours in the middle and lower thirds of the rectum without complication. This technique may reduce contamination in the pelvis and certainly shortens operating time. Cost effectiveness of the technique should be evaluated in busy centres where the benefit would appear to be greatest.