The SMART Trial: Modified Single-Stapled Anastomosis in Laparoscopic or Robotic Low Anterior Resection for Rectal Cancer

In the researchers' words

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn whether a modified single-stapled anastomosis (MST) can reduce anastomotic leakage compared with the conventional double-stapled technique (DST) in adult patients undergoing laparoscopic or robotic low anterior resection for rectal cancer. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does MST lower the incidence of anastomotic leakage after rectal cancer surgery? * Does MST improve short-term surgical outcomes compared with DST? Researchers will compare the MST group with the DST group to see if MST leads to fewer anastomotic leaks and safer postoperative recovery. Participants will: Receive either MST or DST during minimally invasive rectal cancer surgery Undergo routine postoperative CT scans within one month after surgery to check for symptomatic or asymptomatic anastomotic leakage Attend scheduled follow-up visits and standard postoperative assessments as part of routine rectal cancer care