Objective:This study was designed to compare fast track surgery with conventional perioperative management in rectal cancer patients undergoing anterior resection. Methods:42 rectal cancer patients undergoing anterior resection were recruited for this comparative study.20 patients received perioperative fast track rehabilitation;meanwhile other 22 received conventional perioperative care.Outcomes were assessed by length of postoperative hospital stay,medical cost,nutritional status,gut function,and postoperative complication. Results:Fast track rehabilitation group was associated with a significantly shorter postoperative hospital stay,less medical cost,earlier first passage of flatus,less loss of body weight in the postoperative period compared with conventional care group,and there were no differences in morbidity or mortality between two groups. Conclusion:Fast track rehabilitation was feasible and effective in rectal cancer patients undergoing anterior resection.