The aim of the study was to estimate the long-term results and the prognostic value of clinical and pathological factors following R0 anterior resection with total mesorectal excision (TME). Ninety-eight consecutive patients with histologically confirmed rectal cancer were studied prospectively with five-year follow-up. Survival was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method and differences between curves were tested by the log-rank test. Multivariate analysis was performed using the Cox regression model. Recurrence-free survival (RFS) was 63.6%. Mean time of recurrence was 13.8 months (range 3-38). Local recurrence rate was 7.8% with the mean time of 12.7 months (range 3-25). In univariate analysis Dukes' stage (RFS for stage: A=93.2%; B=53.8%; C=26.3%) and preoperative CEA serum level (s-CEA) (for s-CEA ≤5 ng/ml RFS=93.8%; for s-CEA >5 ng/ml RFS = 5.9%) significantly influenced survival (P<0.005 and P<0.00001). These parameters were also found to be independent prognostic factors in multivariate analysis (P<0.05 and P<0.00001). Survival was worse in older female patients with low-localised poorly differentiated tumors; however, those variables had not significant impact on prognosis. Neither symptom duration nor mucinous histology was significantly related to survival. Using TME technique a low local recurrence rate resulting in improved survival can be achieved. Apart from clinicopathological staging, elevated s-CEA can identify patients with poor prognosis. In addition to TME adjuvant therapy for this high-risk group should be considered.

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