SIS-Reinforced vs. Conventional Anastomosis for Mid-to-Low Rectal Cancer: A Multicenter RCT on Anastomotic Leak

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn whether using a reinforcing material called SIS (small intestinal submucosa) during bowel connection after rectal cancer surgery can help prevent anastomotic leakage-a serious complication where the connection between two parts of the intestine fails to heal properly. This study will focus on patients with mid-to-low rectal cancer who are scheduled for surgery. The main questions the study aims to answer are: Does using an SIS-reinforced connection reduce the rate of anastomotic leakage within 30 days after surgery compared to standard connection methods? Does it also reduce the need for a temporary stoma (an opening in the abdomen for waste removal)? Researchers will compare two groups: Intervention group: Patients who receive the SIS-reinforced connection during surgery. Control group: Patients who receive the standard connection without reinforcement. Participants in this study will: Be randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. Undergo standard laparoscopic or robot-assisted rectal cancer surgery. Be followed up at 30 days, 90 days, and 12 months after surgery to check for complications, stoma status, and quality of life. This study is being conducted across multiple hospitals in China to ensure the results are reliable and widely applicable.