Operative mortality following excision of the rectum

Abstract

Resection of the rectum was performed in 1395 patients. There were 94 (6·7 per cent) operative deaths. The operative mortality was similar in the three types of excision. Mortality was high in the male, in the older age groups and in those having palliative resection. Cardiopulmonary complications and sepsis were the two chief causes of the operative deaths.