This study adds to the understanding of the contributing factors leading to LARS, the long term effects of this syndrome post-operatively and its impact on quality of life.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All adult patients >18 years, under the care of all surgical firms at Mater Dei Hospital, who had undergone anterior resection for rectal cancer between January 2014 and December 2016

Exclusion Criteria:

• colorectal cancer (>15cm) from anal verge
• permanent stoma
• known disseminated or recurrent disease,
• patient without restitution of bowel continuity after 1 year

All adult patients >18 years, under the care of all surgical firms at Mater Dei Hospital, who had undergone anterior resection for rectal cancer between January 2014 and December 2016