My dad did not have laparoscopic surgery for his rectal cancer, but I know they started that way, so it must be possible. They had to convert to convention becuase of other things (such as my dad's atypical anatomy), but I wish they could have done it. The recovery time is much better and there is not change in survival rate. I think you have a good doctor to suggest this, especially as the surgery takes longer, but again shorter recovery.