A curative treatment of locally recurrent rectal cancer (LRRC) can only be achieved with a complete resection and microscopically tumor-free surgical margins (R0). Imaging techniques are the most important investigations for the preoperative staging of local and systemic diseases. Due to substantial improvements in surgical strategies and techniques, previously unresectable tumors can now be excised. Several publications have demonstrated the oncological benefits of high sacral resection for LRRC. High subcortical sacrectomy (HiSS), extended lateral resection and extended lateral pelvic sidewall excision (ELSiE) belong to the newer surgical options. Biological meshes, various myocutaneous flaps, titanium and bone allografts can be used for reconstruction. Specialized centers provide an efficient management of complications and postoperative treatment.