What does "preserving the anus" mean?

Sphincter preservation refers to a surgical treatment method that does not involve removal of the anus, particularly suitable for patients with rectal cancer. This type of surgery aims to preserve the anal canal and its functions, thereby maintaining the patient's bowel function and improving quality of life. Common sphincter-preserving procedures include sphincter-preserving rectal cancer surgery, internal sphincterectomy, and transanal total mesorectal excision. Success of such surgery depends not only on the patient's specific condition, such as whether sufficient length of the anal canal and rectum can be preserved (generally ≥3 cm), but also on the overall capability of the hospital and the technical expertise of the surgeon and surgical team. Therefore, when deciding whether to perform sphincter-preserving surgery, multiple factors must be comprehensively considered to ensure the best possible treatment outcome for the patient.