Objective　To evaluate clinical significance of rectovesical/rectouterine folds to prevent pelvic ureteral injury during the operation of rectal carcinoma with respect to its anatomic characteristics. Methods　The anatomic location of rectovesical/rectouterine folds and their relationships with the pelvic ureter and mesorectum were carefully observed in all the 56 cases studied from January 2005 to January 2011. Total mesorectal excision was performed consistently inside the rectovesical/rectouterine folds.　Results　No pelvic ureteral injury occurred in all cases. The anatomic structures of rectovesical/rectouterine folds could be clearly identified in all the 56 cases of rectal carcinoma operation studied. Their location between the pelvic ureter and mesorectum was comparatively constant.　Conclusions　Rectovesical /rectouterine folds can be used as an anatomic landmark to prevent pelvic ureteral injury during the operation of rectal carcinoma.