Anyone have rectal cancer removed without a colostomy?

Yes: But it is highly dependent on the size and location of the rectal cancer. Larger tumors, tumors that spread to surrounding structures or lymph nodes, and very low cancers near the anal opening are more likely to need a colostomy. Pre-operative radiation and chemotherapy treatments may shrink the tumor before having surgery.

Sometimes: It depends on exactly where the cancer is located, and you need a surgeon experienced in this technique.