ObjectiveTo analyze the common reasons of anastomotic leakage following sphincter preservation for rectal cancer, and to explore the better prevention and treatment strategies. MethodThe related literatures of the definition, common causes, and prevention and treatment status of anastomotic leakage were reviewed. ResultsCurrently rectal cancer was one of common malignant tumors, including about 2/3 low rectal cancer.Recently, sphincter preserving surgery had become the preferred surgical procedure.However, the incidence of anastomotic leakage keeping in higher was still the most serious and common complications.Through improving the general condition of the patients, improving surgical techniques, and standardized treatment could effectively reduce the incidence of anastomotic leakage. ConclusionReasonable preoperative assessment for the basic situation of patients with rectal cancer, standardized and individualized treatments, contribute to reduce incidence of anastomotic leakage and improve clinical outcomes in patients with low rectal cancer.