Anal Sphincter Prosthesis in Treating Patients Who Are Undergoing Surgery for Anal or Rectal Cancer

OBJECTIVES: * Determine the risk of complications and feasibility of total anorectal reconstruction using the Acticon Neosphincter prosthesis after abdominoperineal resection in patients with anal or rectal cancer. * Determine continence, bowel function, and quality of life of patients treated with this surgery. OUTLINE: Patients undergo abdominoperineal resection (APR) with perineal colostomy and diverting loop ileostomy. At least 3 months after APR, patients undergo placement of the Acticon Neosphincter prosthesis. At least 6 weeks after prosthesis placement, the prosthesis is activated. When the patient demonstrates the ability to operate the prosthesis, the ileostomy is reversed. Quality of life is assessed at 6 and 12 months and then annually thereafter. Patients are followed at 6 and 12 months and then annually thereafter.