Who is a good candidate for this procedure?

Ideal candidates are patients with mid-to-low rectal cancer where sphincter preservation is possible, typically stages I–III without distant metastases. Contraindications include advanced local invasion into the anal sphincter or pelvic sidewall, severe comorbidities precluding anesthesia, or prior pelvic radiation that may compromise healing. A thorough preoperative evaluation by a multidisciplinary team is essential.