Aim: This prospective study aimed to assess the operative results and oncological outcomes of total mesorectal excision 
(TME) and partial mesorectal excision (PME). 
Methods: Resection of primary rectal and rectosigmoid cancer was performed in 34 patients from March 2005 to February 2007. There were 22 (65%) men and 12 (35%) women. The median age was 61 years (range, 30–81 years). Risk factors for anastomotic leakage, local recurrence, and survival of the patients were analyzed. 
Results: The median level of the tumor from the anal verge was 9 cm (range, 6–20 cm). Curative resection was performed in 29 patients (85%). Five patients (15%) had palliative surgery because of unresectable distant metastasis (n = 4) or residual local disease (n = 1).Significantly longer median operating time, and a longer hospital stay were found in patients with TME. The overall operative mortality and morbidity rates were 12% and 32%, respectively. Anastomotic leak occurred in 6% and 3% of patients with TME and PME, respectively. The 2 year actuarial local recurrence rate was 9%. The 2-year cancer-specific survival was 82%. 
Conclusions: Anterior resection is the safe and preferred option for rectal cancer with low mortality and acceptable 
morbidity.