There continues to be a considerable amount of high-quality research in coloproctology. Several excellent studies have discussed the management of rectal prolapse and fecal incontinence. Moreover, there is increasing interest in the functional outcome of operations for these conditions. Restorative proctocolectomy is topical and different techniques have been evaluated. There are exciting developments in the management of incontinence following unsuccessful surgery. The stimulated graciloplasty described in this review offers great hope to patients thus afflicted. Reconstruction following excision of the rectum for cancer is a continuing challenge. The technical aspects have been largely resolved, but function is often unfortunately less than satisfactory. The relationship between anal cancer, cervical malignancy, and the human papilloma virus is important. Moreover it appears that cervical cancer per se is a risk factor predisposing patients to an increased probability of developing anal malignancy.