Confirm sphincter preservation possibility
Confirm whether sphincter-sparing surgery is possible.
Reviewed by Dra. Patricia Tejedor Togores — Updated: April 30, 2026
Specialty
Surgery for Rectal Cancer
At Quenet-Torrent Institute, we treat rectal cancer with precision surgery, sphincter-sparing techniques, and a multidisciplinary approach that combines oncological excellence with quality of life preservation.
CONTACT SPECIALIST
Clinical summary
Rectal cancer is treated with low anterior resection with total mesorectal excision (TME), the key technique to reduce local recurrence. At Quenet-Torrent Institute (Teknon Barcelona · Memorial Publio Cordón Madrid), Dr. Patricia Tejedor applies this technique together with Dr. Quenet and Dr. Torrent, using robotic surgery when it is the best option.
What is rectal cancer?
Rectal cancer is a malignant tumor originating in the last 15 centimeters of the large intestine. Its location near the sphincters and proximity to other pelvic structures makes its surgical treatment especially complex.
Risk factors are similar to colon cancer: age, family history, inflammatory bowel disease, and lifestyle factors. The most common symptoms are rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, tenesmus, and mucus in stool.
Treatment of rectal cancer requires a multidisciplinary approach. Depending on the stage, it may include neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy, surgery, and adjuvant chemotherapy.
Why request a second opinion for rectal cancer?
Requesting a second opinion is especially important in rectal cancer due to the surgical implications.
Evaluate response to neoadjuvant treatment
Evaluate response to radiochemotherapy and surgical options.
Consider "watch and wait"
In complete responses, consider active surveillance without immediate surgery.
Assess TaTME technique
Assess indication for transanal surgery in low tumors.
A second opinion can make the difference between having a permanent stoma or preserving sphincters.
How do we treat rectal cancer?
Surgical treatment is individualized based on tumor location and stage.
Total mesorectal excision (TME)
Gold standard surgical technique that removes the rectum with its mesorectum intact.
Low anterior resection
Resection preserving sphincters with colorectal or coloanal anastomosis.
Abdominoperineal resection
For tumors very close to the sphincters where preservation is not possible.
TaTME
Transanal total mesorectal excision for low tumors.
The goal is achieving oncological cure with maximum quality of life preservation.
Our Technology
Technology for rectal cancer surgery
High-complexity technology enables more precise surgeries with better functional outcomes.
3D HD Laparoscopy
Minimally invasive approach with excellent pelvic visualization.
Robotic surgery
Greater precision in the confined pelvic space.
TaTME
Transanal approach for better visualization of low tumors.
High-resolution pelvic MRI
Precise staging to plan the best treatment.
Indocyanine green fluorescence
Evaluation of anastomotic perfusion to reduce leaks.
WHY CHOOSE US?
Experience in rectal oncological surgery
Quenet-Torrent Institute offers a comprehensive approach, with teams specialized in complex rectal surgery.
Complex Case Experience
We specialize in treating advanced and metastatic cancer, using complex and innovative techniques that other teams don't offer.
Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Approach
We form a team around you with surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, nutritionists, and psychologists, all working together for your cure.
Research Advances
We stay up-to-date with the latest scientific advances, allowing us to apply innovative treatments with better results.
State-of-the-Art Technology
We have facilities equipped with the most advanced medical technology, allowing us to perform high-precision procedures with less impact on the body.
Personalized and Close Care
We care about each patient as a person. We listen, support, and guide at every step of the way.
Our Team
Rectal cancer specialists
Every physician at Quenet-Torrent Institute is a recognized expert in their field, committed to each patient's well-being.
Dr. François Quenet
Oncological Surgeon
View doctor"Internationally renowned surgeon, expert in gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary tumors. Recognized for his precision in highly difficult surgeries."
Dr. Juan José Torrent
Oncological Surgeon
View doctor"Specialist in gynecological tumors and peritoneal carcinomatosis. A reference in complex and personalized oncological surgery."
Where to treat
Where to treat rectal cancer?
The Quenet-Torrent team consults and operates in two leading private hospitals in Spain, and welcomes international patients with prior remote case assessment.
Barcelona
Centro Médico Teknon
Carrer de Vilana, 12 · 08022 Barcelona, Spain
- Consultations with the Quenet-Torrent team
- High-complexity surgical theatre and HIPEC
- Reference private hospital in Catalonia
Madrid
Memorial Publio Cordón Hospital
Paseo de la Casa de Campo, 5 · 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain
- Surgical oncology unit of the Quenet-Torrent team
- Cytoreductive surgery, HIPEC, PIPAC and robotics
- High-tech private hospital (2026)
International
Patients from around the world
We receive patients with rectal cancer referred from Europe, Latin America and the Middle East.
- Remote case assessment by our committee
- Travel and stay coordination in Spain
- Care in Spanish, English and French
Frequently asked questions about rectal cancer
Answers to the most common questions about diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.
Can rectal cancer be cured?
Yes, especially with proper multimodal treatment. Quality of surgery is key.
Will I need a permanent stoma?
Not necessarily. With modern techniques, most patients preserve sphincter function.
What is "watch and wait"?
Active surveillance strategy in patients with complete response to radiochemotherapy, avoiding immediate surgery.
Why is neoadjuvant treatment done?
Radiochemotherapy before surgery can reduce the tumor, facilitate resection, and improve local control.
How long is the recovery?
Hospitalization is usually 5-10 days and complete recovery in 6-8 weeks.
Where can I receive this treatment safely?
In specialized centers with experience in rectal oncological surgery, like Quenet-Torrent Institute.
Real cases
Patient testimonies and surgery explanations
Real testimonies from patients treated by our team in high-complexity surgical oncology.
Debra's case
66-year-old English woman with advanced ovarian cancer and peritoneal metastases. Treated with cytoreduction + HIPEC, she is now disease-free.
Read the full caseRosario (Charo)'s case
73-year-old patient with advanced cancer treated with chemotherapy and high-complexity surgical oncology. Excellent survival and quality of life.
Read the full caseLaura's case
Rare abdominal tumor treated with complex cytoreductive surgery plus HIPEC and systemic chemotherapy. Disease-free after almost 2 years.
Read the full caseSantiago's case
Diagnosed with widespread peritoneal carcinomatosis and considered inoperable. After complete cytoreduction with HIPEC, today his is a story of hope and survival.
Read the full case
Verified reviews
See on Google
★★★★★
What our patients say
L
4 weeks ago
★★★★★
Wonderful surgical team, among the best out there. Dr. Torrent (expert in peritoneal carcinomatosis) is an exceptional surgeon and an even better person. His coordinator is super kind, fast and efficient. The human treatment is great and the results are too. This is of vital importance for cancer patients.
K
5 months ago
★★★★★
In the public healthcare system they gave my father a maximum of one year to live. They only offered him chemo and no hope, said it was impossible, that nothing could be done. He had several tumors inside the peritoneal sac with metastases. A year and a half later he is clean, completely cured. His latest PET scan came back clean. We are very happy. Thanks to Dr. Torrent and his team. THANK YOU.
M
A year ago
★★★★★
Excellent professionals, especially Dr. Torrent, attentive at all times to the patient (my wife), operated for peritoneal pseudomyxoma. They helped us with all our needs since we came from outside Barcelona. Thank you Elisabeth. We are very grateful to Quenet Torrent Institute, thank you for everything.
P
2 years ago
★★★★★
I am a 63-year-old patient. They detected adrenal gland cancer and told me there was nothing to be done. I sought a second opinion and they told me about the Quenet Torrent team, specialists in complex operations. Dr. Torrent, from the first moment, told me they could operate. They operated and removed a large tumor mass. I spent a week in the ICU and a month on the ward. Every day he came morning and evening, no matter Saturday or Sunday. Never throw in the towel. I am happy to have found these professionals who gave me my life back. Thank you.
I
3 years ago
★★★★★
Many thanks for your attention. Dr. Torrent always attentive, involved and decisive. The reception staff very pleasant and always offering the best option. 100% RECOMMENDED. THANK YOU.
M
5 years ago
★★★★★
Dr. Torrent helped me make the best decision at a difficult moment. I think he is a great professional and a person capable of accompanying you and putting himself in another's shoes. Thank you for everything.
F
6 years ago
★★★★★
I have peritoneal carcinomatosis. Sending my diagnosis to every center, practically all agreed on palliative chemo with little survival time since I had very aggressive cell types. Until we reached Dr. Quenet, Dr. Torrent and their team. I can only confirm what their CV announces: they are far ahead of the rest. They saved my life — at surgery the harmful cells everyone diagnosed (and used to refuse to operate) were not there. This intervention has become the best investment of my life.
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