Resection of recurrent adenocarcinoma of the colon and rectum at the anastomotic site was performed in 30 patients. In the majority of the patients, the recurrence was apparent within 2 yr of the initial operation. In 27 patients, the recurrence was diagnosed based upon persistent signs and symptoms or if the tumor was clinically palpable. In 15 patients, complete resection of the recurrent tumor was feasible. The median survival time was 59 mo. with a 5 yr survival rate of 49%. In 10 other patients, minimal tumor was left behind. The median survival time was 17 mo. 12% survived 5 yr.