Rectal cancer of the middle and distal third of the rectum are nowadays managed by low or ultra-low anterior resection with total mesorectal excision and coloanal anastomosis. Following straight coloanal anastomosis, patients often suffer from high stool frequency, urgency and, occasionally, fecal incontinence. To overcome these problems, several types of colonic reservoirs (pouches) have been proposed. The following article elucidates the indications and contraindications for the creation of a pouch. Furthermore, the paper gives a short overview of the different pouch designs that are widely accepted and currently in use, with special emphasis of the typical advantages, disadvantages and feasibility. Current guide-lines recommend to perform a colonic pouch since it provides functional benefits over straight coloanal anastomosis with no increase in postoperative complications.