[Amputation of the rectum by the perineosacral approach for anorectal cancer. Indications, results. Apropos of 27 cases].

Twenty seven patients were operated on by perineo-sacral route for anal or rectal cancer. This technique used between 1965-1982 at the Institut Curie was selected because the patients were very old and/or presented with major visceral disease, where the abdomino-perineal resection was not indicated. There was no post-operative death. The margin were free of disease in every patients. 6/27 died within the 6 post-operative months mainly from cardiovascular disease. While most patients were irradiated pre operatively perineal healing was obtained within 6 months in 18/21 cases. 5 patients died of cancer during the two years following surgery. 16/21 are NED with a follow up 1-12 years. Perineo-sacral route is a good alternative from APR in old patients with cardio-vascular disease.