What is an abdominal perineal resection (APR), and when is it indicated?
APR is the removal of the entire anus and rectum with an end colostomy. It is generally indicated for total anal incontinence or tumors that invade the anal sphincter. Low rectal cancers that do not directly invade the anal sphincter can, in certain situations, be managed with sphincter preservation and restorative coloanal anastomosis.
