ObjectiveTo study the significance of lateral lymph nodes sweeping in lower rectal cancer. MethodsRoutine pathological methods were used to detect the regularity of lateral lymph nodes metastasis and the survival rate of the patient. All the data was analysed by χ2 test. Results①Lateral lymph nodes metastasis was observed in 12.5% rectal cancer below the peritoneum,and it was the main lymph metastatic way. ②Low differented adenocarcinoma and mucous adenocarcinoma had more lateral lymph nodes metastasis than other types. Lateral lymph nodes metastasis was also related with invaded degree of invasion. ③The survival rate of the case with lateral lymph node metastasis was 42.2%.ConclusionLateral lymph nodes should be swept in advanced rectal cancer to prevent remains of lymph nodes remained and increase the survival rate.