Abstract: Surgical resection is one of the main steps in the treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer. With the popularization of total mesorectal resection and laparoscopic minimally invasive techniques, related current research on surgical treatment has now entered a relatively high-level stage. In this article, we review the research frontiers of surgical treatment on rectal cancer, including reduction of trocars, specimen retrieval through natural orifices, robotic surgery, high definition/3D/indocyanine fluorescence green surgery, surgical approach and key surgery technology. Based on the current environment of evidence-based medicine, colorectal surgeons should adapt to the changes of the times, actively absorb cutting-edge scientific concepts and technologies and integrate them with surgical equipment and instruments, and carry out rigorous and innovative large-scale prospective clinical trials.