However, laparoscopic resection of mid and low rectal cancer is technically difficult due to tapering of the mesorectum in the pelvis and the forward angle of the distal rectum rendering this part of the rectum less accessible from the abdominal cavity. This may lead to incomplete mesorectal excision and involved circumferential resection margins (CRMs), with consequent local recurrences.Previous pelvic radiation can make laparoscopic pelvic dissection more difficult, and tumors located on the anterior rectal wall have an increased risk of inadequate oncological clearance. The use of laparoscopic staplers in a narrow pelvis is difficult and the multiple firings of staples across the low rectum is of concern.