Robotic-assisted low anterior resection for rectal cancer shows similar clinical efficacy to laparoscopic surgery: A propensity score matched study

BACKGROUND Rectal cancer ranks as the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide,necessitating surgical resection as the sole treatment option.Over the years,there has been a growing adoption of minimally invasive surgical techni-ques such as robotic and laparoscopic approaches.Robotic surgery represents an innovative modality that effectively addresses the limitations associated with traditional laparoscopic techniques.While previous studies have reported favo-rable perioperative outcomes for robot-assisted radical resection in rectal cancer patients,further evidence regarding its oncological safety is still warranted.AIM To conduct a comparative analysis of perioperative and oncological outcomes between robot-assisted and laparoscopic-assisted low anterior resection(LALAR)procedures.METHODS The clinical data of 125 patients who underwent robot-assisted low anterior resection(RALAR)and 279 patients who underwent LALAR resection at Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University from December 2019 to November 2022 were retrospectively analyzed.After performing a 1:1 propensity score matching,the patients were divided into two groups:The RALAR group and the LALAR group(111 cases in each group).Subsequently,a comparison was made between the short-term outcomes within 30 d after surgery and the 3-year survival outcomes of these two groups.RESULTS Compared to the LALAR group,the RALAR group exhibited a significantly earlier time to first flatus[2(2-2)d vs 3(3-3)d,P=0.000],as well as a shorter time to first fluid diet[4(3-4)d vs 5(4-6)d,P=0.001].Additionally,the RALAR group demonstrated reduced postoperative indwelling catheter time[2(1-3)d vs 4(3-5)d,P=0.000]and decreased length of hospital stay after surgery[5(5-7)d vs 7(6-8)d,P=0.009].Moreover,there was an observed increase in total cost of hospitalization for the RALAR group compared to the LALAR group[10777(10780-11850)dollars vs 10550(8766-11715)dollars,P=0.012].No significant differences were found in terms of conversion rate to laparotomy or incidence of postoperative complications between both groups.Furthermore,no significant disparities were noted regarding the 3-year overall survival rate and 3-year disease-free survival rate between both groups.CONCLUSION Robotic surgery offers potential advantages in terms of accelerated recovery of gastrointestinal and urologic function compared to LALAR resection,while maintaining similar perioperative and 3-year oncological outcomes.

Efficacy of laparoscopic low anterior resection for colorectal cancer patients with 3D-vascular reconstruction for left coronary artery preservation

BACKGROUND Laparoscopic low anterior resection(LLAR)has become a mainstream surgical method for the treatment of colorectal cancer,which has shown many advantages in the aspects of surgical trauma and postoperative rehabilitation.However,the effect of surgery on patients'left coronary artery and its vascular reconstruction have not been deeply discussed.With the development of medical imaging technology,3D vascular reconstruction has become an effective means to evaluate the curative effect of surgery.AIM To investigate the clinical value of preoperative 3D vascular reconstruction in LLAR of rectal cancer with the left colic artery(LCA)preserved.METHODS A retrospective cohort study was performed to analyze the clinical data of 146 patients who underwent LLAR for rectal cancer with LCA preservation from January to December 2023 in our hospital.All patients underwent LLAR of rectal cancer with the LCA preserved,and the intraoperative and postoperative data were complete.The patients were divided into a reconstruction group(72 patients)and a nonreconstruction group(74 patients)according to whether 3D vascular reconstruction was performed before surgery.The clinical features,operation conditions,complications,pathological results and postoperative recovery of the two groups were collected and compared.RESULTS A total of 146 patients with rectal cancer were included in the study,including 72 patients in the reconstruction group and 74 patients in the nonreconstruction group.There were 47 males and 25 females in the reconstruction group,aged(59.75±6.2)years,with a body mass index(BMI)(24.1±2.2)kg/m^(2),and 51 males and 23 females in the nonreconstruction group,aged(58.77±6.1)years,with a BMI(23.6±2.7)kg/m^(2).There was no significant difference in the baseline data between the two groups(P>0.05).In the submesenteric artery reconstruction group,35 patients were type Ⅰ,25 patients were type Ⅱ,11 patients were type Ⅲ,and 1 patient was type Ⅳ.There were 37 type Ⅰ patients,24 type Ⅱ patients,12 type Ⅲ patients,and 1 type Ⅳ patient in the nonreconstruction group.There was no significant difference in arterial typing between the two groups(P>0.05).The operation time of the reconstruction group was 162.2±10.8 min,and that of the nonreconstruction group was 197.9±19.1 min.Compared with that of the reconstruction group,the operation time of the two groups was shorter,and the difference was statistically significant(t=13.840,P<0.05).The amount of intraoperative blood loss was 30.4±20.0 mL in the reconstruction group and 61.2±26.4 mL in the nonreconstruction group.The amount of blood loss in the reconstruction group was less than that in the control group,and the difference was statistically significant(t=-7.930,P<0.05).The rates of anastomotic leakage(1.4%vs 1.4%,P=0.984),anastomotic hemorrhage(2.8%vs 4.1%,P=0.672),and postoperative hospital stay(6.8±0.7 d vs 7.0±0.7 d,P=0.141)were not significantly different between the two groups.CONCLUSION Preoperative 3D vascular reconstruction technology can shorten the operation time and reduce the amount of intraoperative blood loss.Preoperative 3D vascular reconstruction is recommended to provide an intraoperative reference for laparoscopic low anterior resection with LCA preservation.

Machine learning model for prediction of low anterior resection syndrome following laparoscopic anterior resection of rectal cancer:A multicenter study

BACKGROUND Low anterior resection syndrome(LARS)severely impairs patient postoperative quality of life,especially major LARS.However,there are few tools that can accurately predict major LARS in clinical practice.AIM To develop a machine learning model using preoperative and intraoperative factors for predicting major LARS following laparoscopic surgery of rectal cancer in Chinese populations.METHODS Clinical data and follow-up information of patients who received laparoscopic anterior resection for rectal cancer from two medical centers(one discovery cohort and one external validation cohort)were included in this retrospective study.For the discovery cohort,the machine learning prediction algorithms were developed and internally validated.In the external validation cohort,we evaluated the trained model using various performance metrics.Further,the clinical utility of the model was tested by decision curve analysis.RESULTS Overall,1651 patients were included in the present study.Anastomotic height,neoadjuvant therapy,diverting stoma,body mass index,clinical stage,specimen length,tumor size,and age were the risk factors associated with major LARS.They were used to construct the machine learning model to predict major LARS.The trained random forest(RF)model performed with an area under the curve of 0.852 and a sensitivity of 0.795(95%CI:0.681-0.877),a specificity of 0.758(95%CI:0.671-0.828),and Brier score of 0.166 in the external validation set.Compared to the previous preoperative LARS score model,the current model exhibited superior predictive performance in predicting major LARS in our cohort(accuracy of 0.772 for the RF model vs 0.355 for the preoperative LARS score model).CONCLUSION We developed and validated a robust tool for predicting major LARS.This model could potentially be used in the clinic to identify patients with a high risk of developing major LARS and then improve the quality of life.

Effect of low anterior resection syndrome on quality of life in colorectal cancer patients:A retrospective observational study

BACKGROUND Low anterior resection syndrome(LARS)is a common complication of anuspreserving surgery in patients with colorectal cancer,which significantly affects patients'quality of life.AIM To determine the relationship between the incidence of LARS and patient quality of life after colorectal cancer surgery and to establish a LARS prediction model to allow perioperative precision nursing.METHODS We reviewed the data from patients who underwent elective radical resection for colorectal cancer at our institution from April 2013 to June 2020 and completed the LARS score questionnaire and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life and Colorectal Cancer Module questionnaires.According to the LARS score results,the patients were divided into no LARS,mild LARS,and severe LARS groups.The incidence of LARS and the effects of this condition on patient quality of life were determined.Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify independent risk factors for the occurrence of LARS.Based on these factors,we established a risk prediction model for LARS and evaluated its performance.RESULTS Among the 223 patients included,51 did not develop LARS and 171 had mild or severe LARS.The following quality of life indicators showed significant differences between patients without LARS and those with mild or severe LARS:Physical,role,emotional,and cognitive function,total health status,fatigue,pain,shortness of breath,insomnia,constipation,and diarrhea.Tumor size,partial/total mesorectal excision,colostomy,preoperative radiotherapy,and neoadjuvant chemotherapy were identified to be independent risk factors for LARS.A LARS prediction model was successfully established,which demonstrated an accuracy of 0.808 for predicting the occurrence of LARS.CONCLUSION The quality of life of patients with LARS after colorectal cancer surgery is significantly reduced.

Application of electroacupuncture in the prevention of low anterior resection syndrome after rectal cancer surgery

BACKGROUND Low anterior resection syndrome(LARS)is one of the common postoperative complications in patients with rectal cancer,which seriously affects their postoperative recovery and quality of life(QoL).Electroacupuncture therapy is one of the characteristic therapies of traditional Chinese medicine.There are few reports on the prevention and treatment of LARS by electroacupuncture therapy.AIM To explore the clinical effectiveness of electroacupuncture in managing rectal cancer patients with postoperative LARS.METHODS A total of 50 patients with LARS after rectal cancer surgery were retrospectively selected as the research subjects.According to the treatment methods,they were divided into an observation group(n=25)and a control group(n=25).During the four-week treatment period,the control group received standard defecation function training,while the observation group received electroacupuncture care and traditional defecation function training.The anal pressure index(which includes anal resting pressure,anal systolic pressure,and maximum tolerable volume),European Organization of Research and Treatment of Cancer(EORTC)QoL C30(QLQ-C30)score,LARS Scale(LARSS)score,Wexner anal incontinence scale score,Xu Zhongfa five-item 10-point scale score,and the occurrence of adverse reactions were compared between the two groups before and after treatment.RESULTS The experimental group showed considerably enhanced LARSS scores compared to those in the control group after four weeks of treatment.In the first week,second week,and fourth week,the LARSS score and Wexner anal incontinence scale score decreased,and the Xu Zhong method five-item 10-point scale score increased,with significant differences(P<0.05).The experimental group showed substantial improvements in anal resting pressure,anal systolic pressure,and maximum tolerance volume after undergoing 4 wk of therapy in the untreated group(P<0.05).The experimental group's QLQ-C30 score on the EORTC QoL questionnaire was higher than that of the control group during the 1st,2nd,and 4th wk(P<0.05).No significant variation between the groups in the frequency of adverse reactions(P>0.05)was observed.CONCLUSION Electroacupuncture positively impacted LARS following rectal cancer surgery,effectively improving clinical symptoms and anal pressure indicators and patients’standard of life.

Role of protective stoma in low anterior resection for rectal cancer:A meta-analysis

AIM: To provide a comprehensive evaluation of the role of a protective stoma in low anterior resection (LAR) for rectal cancer.

Risk factors for anastomotic leakage after low anterior resection without diversional stomas

Objective The most important complication after low anterior resection(LAR) for mid-low rectal cancer is symptomatic anastomotic leakage(AL). More than one-third of patients with rectal cancer who underwent LAR will have functional stomas during primary operation. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the risk factors associated with clinical AL following LAR without diversional stomas.Methods Between 2012 and 2017, information about 578 consecutive patients with rectal tumors less than 12 cm from the anal verge who underwent LAR without diversional stomas by the same surgical team was collected retrospectively. A standardized extraperitonealized anastomosis and pelvic drainage were conducted for all patients during primary operations, and the outcome of interest was clinical AL. The associations between AL and 14 patient-related and surgical variables were examined by both univariate chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression analysis.Results The AL rate was 7.27%(42 of 578). Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that male sex(P = 0.018), mid-low rectal cancer(located 10 cm or less above the anal verge)(P = 0.041), presence of diabetes(odds ratio = 2.117), longer duration of operation(odds ratio = 1.890), and intraoperative contamination(odds ratio = 2.163) were risk factors of AL for LAR without diversional stoma and independently predictive of clinical AL. Nearly 83.3%(35 of 42) of leakage could be cured by persistent pelvic irrigation-suction-drainage without surgical intervention. Only 7 patients(16.7%) with severe complications, such as peritonitis, and fistula, required reoperation, and functional stoma was used as a salvage treatment.Conclusion From the findings of this retrospective survey, we identified that mid-low rectal cancer and male sex were independent risk factors for developing clinical AL after LAR without diversional stomas, as well as longer duration of operation, presence of diabetes, and contamination of the operative field. Moreover, we deemed that LAR without diversional stomas for mid-low rectal cancers was safe, effective, and feasible. Extraperitonealized anastomosis and pelvic drainage obtained a relatively low rate of AL and avoided unnecessary functional stomas. Pelvic irrigation-suction-drainage was an effective procedure to resolve AL, and functional stoma was potentially used as a salvage modality for serious leakage.

Transanal minimally invasive surgery to rescue anastomosis following leak after low anterior resection: A case report

Restorative low anterior resection(LAR)for rectal cancer carries a significant risk of anastomotic leak:One of the most feared complications in colorectal surgery.Operative management may include takedown of the anastomosis and end colostomy which,in some cases,is permanent.Other contemporary operative measures include over the scope clips and Endosponge.Recently,there have been case reports and a Society of American Endoscopic and Gastrointestinal Surgeons video on the novel use of transanal minimally invasive surgery(TAMIS)in the management of anastomotic leak.We present a 59-year-old female who underwent LAR after declining radiotherapy for a bulky 9 cm rectal tumour 9-10 cm from the anal verge.Following clinical deterioration,computed tomography demonstrated an anastomotic leak communicating with a 5-cm pelvic collection containing gas.At laparoscopy,pus and faeculent material were washed from the pelvic cavity and drains were placed.Intra-operative endoscopy demonstrated a 7-8 mm dehiscence at the anastomosis.The defect(approximately 7 cm from the anal verge)was successfully closed using TAMIS and a running V-lock suture.The patient recovered well and was discharged home on post-operative day 20.In this case,a low colorectal anastomotic leak was successfully rescued with TAMIS.This novel technique may be useful in the armamentarium of colorectal surgeons experienced in TAMIS.

Anorectal dysfunction in patients with mid-low rectal cancer after surgery: A pilot study with three-dimensional high-resolution manometry

BACKGROUND The quality of life in patients who develop low anterior resection syndrome(LARS)after surgery for mid-low rectal cancer is seriously impaired.The underlying pathophysiological mechanism of LARS has not been fully investigated.AIM To assess anorectal function of mid-low rectal cancer patients developing LARS perioperatively.METHODS Patients diagnosed with mid-low rectal cancer were included.The LARS score was used to evaluate defecation symptoms 3 and 6 mo after anterior resection or a stoma reversal procedure.Anorectal functions were assessed by threedimensional high resolution anorectal manometry preoperatively and 3-6 mo after surgery.RESULTS The study population consisted of 24 patients.The total LARS score was decreased at 6 mo compared with 3 mo after surgery(P<0.05),but 58.3%(14/24)lasted as major LARS at 6 mo after surgery.The length of the high-pressure zone of the anal sphincter was significantly shorter,the mean resting pressure and maximal squeeze pressure of the anus were significantly lower than those before surgery in allpatients (P < 0.05), especially in the neoadjuvant therapy group after surgery (n = 18). The focalpressure defects of the anal canal were detected in 70.8% of patients, and those patients had higherLARS scores at 3 mo postoperatively than those without focal pressure defects (P < 0.05). Spasticperistaltic contractions from the new rectum to anus were detected in 45.8% of patients, whichwere associated with a higher LARS score at 3 mo postoperatively (P < 0.05).CONCLUSIONThe LARS score decreases over time after surgery in the majority of patients with mid-low rectalcancer. Anorectal dysfunctions, especially focal pressure defects of the anal canal and spasticperistaltic contractions from the new rectum to anus postoperatively, might be the majorpathophysiological mechanisms of LARS.

Colonic pouch confers better bowel function and similar postoperative outcomes compared to straight anastomosis for low rectal cancer

BACKGROUND With advancements in laparoscopic technology and the wide application of linear staplers,sphincter-saving procedures are increasingly performed for low rectal cancer.However,sphincter-saving procedures have led to the emergence of a unique clinical disorder termed anterior rectal resection syndrome.Colonic pouch anastomosis improves the quality of life of patients with rectal cancer>7 cm from the anal margin.But whether colonic pouch anastomosis can reduce the incidence of rectal resection syndrome in patients with low rectal cancer is unknown.AIM To compare postoperative and oncological outcomes and bowel function of straight and colonic pouch anal anastomoses after resection of low rectal cancer.METHODS We conducted a retrospective study of 72 patients with low rectal cancer who underwent sphincter-saving procedures with either straight or colonic pouch anastomoses.Functional evaluations were completed preoperatively and at 1,6,and 12 mo postoperatively.We also compared perioperative and oncological outcomes between two groups that had undergone low or ultralow anterior rectal resection.RESULTS There were no significant differences in mean operating time,blood loss,time to first passage of flatus and excrement,and duration of hospital stay between the colonic pouch and straight anastomosis groups.The incidence of anastomotic leakage following colonic pouch construction was lower(11.4%vs 16.2%)but not significantly different than that of straight anastomosis.Patients with colonic pouch construction had lower postoperative low anterior resection syndrome scores than the straight anastomosis group,suggesting better bowel function(preoperative:4.71 vs 3.89,P=0.43;1 mo after surgery:34.2 vs 34.7,P=0.59;6 mo after surgery:22.70 vs 29.0,P<0.05;12 mo after surgery:15.5 vs 19.5,P=0.01).The overall recurrence and metastasis rates were similar(4.3%and 11.4%,respectively).CONCLUSION Colonic pouch anastomosis is a safe and effective procedure for colorectal reconstruction after low and ultralow rectal resections.Moreover,colonic pouch construction may provide better functional outcomes compared to straight anastomosis.

Magnetic resonance imaging-based deep learning model to predict multiple firings in double-stapled colorectal anastomosis

BACKGROUND Multiple linear stapler firings during double stapling technique(DST)after laparoscopic low anterior resection(LAR)are associated with an increased risk of anastomotic leakage(AL).However,it is difficult to predict preoperatively the need for multiple linear stapler cartridges during DST anastomosis.AIM To develop a deep learning model to predict multiple firings during DST anastomosis based on pelvic magnetic resonance imaging(MRI).METHODS We collected 9476 MR images from 328 mid-low rectal cancer patients undergoing LAR with DST anastomosis,which were randomly divided into a training set(n=260)and testing set(n=68).Binary logistic regression was adopted to create a clinical model using six factors.The sequence of fast spin-echo T2-weighted MRI of the entire pelvis was segmented and analyzed.Pure-image and clinical-image integrated deep learning models were constructed using the mask region-based convolutional neural network segmentation tool and three-dimensional convolutional networks.Sensitivity,specificity,accuracy,positive predictive value(PPV),and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC)was calculated for each model.RESULTS The prevalence of≥3 linear stapler cartridges was 17.7%(58/328).The prevalence of AL was statistically significantly higher in patients with≥3 cartridges compared to those with≤2 cartridges(25.0%vs 11.8%,P=0.018).Preoperative carcinoembryonic antigen level>5 ng/mL(OR=2.11,95%CI 1.08-4.12,P=0.028)and tumor size≥5 cm(OR=3.57,95%CI 1.61-7.89,P=0.002)were recognized as independent risk factors for use of≥3 linear stapler cartridges.Diagnostic performance was better with the integrated model(accuracy=94.1%,PPV=87.5%,and AUC=0.88)compared with the clinical model(accuracy=86.7%,PPV=38.9%,and AUC=0.72)and the image model(accuracy=91.2%,PPV=83.3%,and AUC=0.81).CONCLUSION MRI-based deep learning model can predict the use of≥3 linear stapler cartridges during DST anastomosis in laparoscopic LAR surgery.This model might help determine the best anastomosis strategy by avoiding DST when there is a high probability of the need for≥3 linear stapler cartridges.

Assessment and management of low anterior resection syndrome after sphincter preserving surgery for rectal cancer

Many patients develop a variety of bowel dysfunction after sphincter preserving surgeries(SPS)for rectal cancer.The bowel dysfunction usually manifests in the form of low anterior resection syndrome(LARS),which has a negative impact on the patients'quality of life.This study reviewed the LARS after SPS,its mechanism,risk factors,diagnosis,prevention,and treatment based on previously published studies.Adequate history taking,physical examination of the patients,using validated questionnaires and other diagnostic tools are important for assessment of LARS severity.Treatment of LARS should be tailored to each patient.Multimodal therapy is usually needed for patients with major LARS with acceptable results.The treatment includes conservative management in the form of medical,pelvic floor rehabilitation and transanal irrigation and invasive procedures including neuromodulation.If this treatment failed,fecal diversion may be needed.In conclusion,Initial meticulous dissection with preservation of nerves and creation of a neorectal reservoir during anastomosis and proper Kegel exercise of the anal sphincter can minimize the occurrence of LARS.Pre-treatment counseling is an essential step for patients who have risk factors for developing LARS.

Iatrogenic colorectal perforation induced by anorectal manometry:Report of two cases after restorative proctectomy for distal rectal cancer

There are no reports regarding perforation of the colorectum induced by anorectal manometry. We report two cases of colorectal perforation that occurred during manometry in the patients undergoing restorative proctectomy for distal rectal cancer. In the first patient, computed tomography showed an extraperitoneal perforation in the pelvic cavity and a rupture of the rectal wall. A localized perforation into the retroperitoneum was managed conservatively. In the second patient, a 3 cm linear colon rupture was detected above the anastomotic site. A primary closure of the perforated colon and proximal ileostomy were conducted, but the patient died 2 wk later. We hypothesize that the perforation induced by anorectal manometry may be associated with the relative weakening of the proximal bowel wall due to anastomosis, decreased compliance, and abnormal rectal sensation. We suggest that measurement of the maximum tolerable volume should not be routinely performed alter restorative proctectomy for distal rectal cancer.

EVALUATION OF PHYSIOLOGIC FUNCTION OF COLONIC POUCHANASTOMOSES AFTER EXCISION FOR RECTAL CANCER

Objective: To study the physiology value of colonic pouch anastomosis after rectal cancer excision. Methods: Forty-six patients with total mesonectal excision for carcinoma were randomized to either a straight (Group A, n=23) or a colonic pouch anastomosis (Group B, n=23). The neorectal physiologic function of patients in both groups was evaluated, which included laboratory studies. Results: Sphincter pressures in both groups were similar. Preoperative compliance of the rectum was restored after surgery in the Group B, 0.296 (0.224–0.347) L/Kpa, but there was a significant decrease after surgery in the Group A, 0.194 (0.112–0.235) L/Kpa P<0.001. By a multiple regression analysis, neo-rectal complicance was associated with favorable clinical function, and hypermotility of the canal was associated with adverse clinical function. Conclusion: Colonic pouch-anastomosis restores neorectal compliance, which is important for good function after low anterior resection.

Intussusception due to rectal adenocarcinoma in a young adult:A case report

An intussusception due to colonic adenocarcinoma has sometimes been reported. However, to the best of our knowledge, reports of intussusception due to rectal adenocarcinoma are extremely rare. In this report, the case of a young man with rectal adenocarcinoma causing intussusception is described. A 24-year-old man visited a hospital complaining of abdominal pain, and an upper rectal cancer was diagnosed by colonoscopy. Computed tomography showed intussusception caused by a large tumor in the pelvis and absence of distant metastases. Locally advanced rectal cancer causing intussusception was diagnosed, and a low anterior resection was performed. Intraoperatively, repair of the invagination could not be accomplished easily; therefore, the repair was abandoned. Instead, the tumor was removed en bloc to avoid dissemination of the cancer. Histopathologically, the tumor was diagnosed as a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma, pStage IIA. The patient has no evidence of recurrence at 10 mo after the operation.

Risk factors for nonclosure of defunctioning stoma and stoma-related complications among low rectal cancer patients after sphincter-preserving surgery

Background::Defunctioning stoma is widely used to reduce anastomotic complications in rectal cancer surgery.However,the complications of stoma and stoma reversal surgery should not be underestimated.Furthermore,in some patients,stoma reversal failed.Here,we investigated the complications of defunctioning stoma surgery and subsequent reversal surgery and identify risk factors associated with the failure of getting stoma reversed.Methods::In total,154 patients who simultaneously underwent low anterior resection and defunctioning stoma were reviewed.Patients were divided into two groups according to whether their stoma got reversed or not.The reasons that patients received defunctioning stoma and experienced stoma-related complications and the risk factors for failing to get stoma reversed were analysed.Results::The mean follow-up time was 47.54(range 4.0-164.0)months.During follow-up,19.5%of the patients suffered stoma-related long-term complications.Only 79(51.3%)patients had their stomas reversed.The morbidity of complications after reversal surgery was 45.6%,and these mainly consisted of incision-related complications.Multivariate analyses showed that pre-treatment comorbidity(HR=3.17,95%CI 1.27-7.96,P=0.014),postoperative TNM stage(HR=2.55,95%CI 1.05-6.18,P=0.038),neoadjuvant therapy(HR=2.75,95%CI 1.07-7.05,P=0.036),anastomosis-related complications(HR=4.52,95%CI 1.81-11.29,P=0.001),and disease recurrence(HR=24.83,95%CI 2.90-213.06,P=0.003)were significant independent risk factors for a defunctioning stoma to be permanent.Conclusions::Defunctioning stoma is an effective method to reduce symptomatic anastomotic leakage,but the stoma itself and its reversal procedure are associated with high morbidity of complications,and many defunctioning stomas eventually become permanent.Therefore,surgeons should carefully assess preoperatively and perform defunctioning stomas in very high risk patients.In addition,doctors should perform stoma reversal surgery more actively to prevent temporary stomas from becoming permanent.