End to End Versus Side to End Anastomosis After Anterior Resection of Cancer Rectum

This surgical study compares two different techniques for reconnecting the bowel after removal of a section of the rectum (anterior resection) for rectal cancer — end-to-end anastomosis versus side-to-end anastomosis. The goal is to determine which reconnection method leads to better bowel function and fewer complications. **You may be eligible if...** - You are between 18 and 80 years old - You are having laparoscopic (keyhole) or open surgery to remove a section of the rectum for rectal cancer (anterior resection) **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have cancer in two separate locations in the colon or rectum at the same time - You are having emergency surgery - You have had a previous surgery to remove a section of the colon or rectum - You received radiation therapy before this surgery for a fixed (non-mobile) rectal tumor Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.