ObjectiveTo compare anal function and quality of life between partial longitudinal resection of the anorectum and sphincter (PLRAS) and intersphincteric resection (ISR) for rectal cancer. MethodsNinety-nine cases of very low rectal cancer were classified as PLRAS group (n=23) and ISR group (n=76) according to different surgical method. Anal function was assessed by Saito function questionnaire and the Wexner scale in 6, 12, and 24 months after operation. At the same time, quality of life was assessed by European Organization for research and treatment of cancer quality of life questionnaire CR29 (EORTC-QLQ-CR29). Results①Anastomosis stenosis:compared with ISR group, the situation on anastomosis stenosis was worse in 6 months (P < 0.001) and 12 months (P=0.003) after operation, but didn't significantly differed in 24 months after operation (P=0.230).②Results of the Saito function questionnaire:compared with ISR group, there were higher incidence on stool fragmentation (P=0.016), dyschesia (P=0.008), and feces-flatus discrimination (P < 0.001) in PLRAS group in 6 months after operation, and the incidence of feces-flatus discrimination was still higher in 12 months (P=0.017), but there was no any significant difference in 24 months after operation (P > 0.05).③Results of Wexner scale:there were no statistical difference between the 2 groups at all recorded times (P > 0.05).④Results of EORTC-QLQ-CR29 questionnaire:in 6 months after operation, the scores of flatulence (P=0.003), faecal incontinence (P=0.043), and sexual interest in women (P=0.023) of PLARS group were lower than ISR group but higher in buttock pain (P=0.031) and dyspareunia (P=0.006). In 12 months after operation, the scores of flatulence (P=0.012) and sexual interest in women (P=0.017) were both lower than ISR group, but score of dyspareunia was higher (P=0.012). In 24 months after operation, there was no any significant difference (P > 0.05). ConclusionsPLRAS surgery have worse situation of anastomosis stenosis and sexual function in women than ISR surgery before 12 months after operation, but have analogous effect in 24 months after operation.