Ann Coloproctol.  2019 Apr;35(2):53-64. 10.3393/ac.2019.04.15.1.

Organ Preservation Strategies After Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer

• Yoo RN
• Kim HJ

• KMID: 2448265
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3393/ac.2019.04.15.1

Abstract

Standard use of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, total mesorectal excision, and postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy in locally advanced rectal cancer has tremendously improved oncologic outcomes over the past several decades. However, these improvements come with costs of significant morbidity and poor quality of life. Along with developments in imaging techniques, clinical experience and evidence have identified a certain subgroup of patients that have exceptionally good clinical outcomes while preserving quality of life. Driven by patient demand and interest in preserving quality of life, numerous organ preservation treatment strategies for managing rectal cancer are rapidly evolving. Herein, the flow of research in organ preservation strategies and counter arguments are discussed.

Keyword

Rectal neoplasms; Organ preservation; Quality of life; Induction chemotherapy; Consolidation chemotherapy

MeSH Terms

Chemoradiotherapy*
Chemotherapy, Adjuvant
Consolidation Chemotherapy
Humans
Induction Chemotherapy
Organ Preservation*
Quality of Life
Rectal Neoplasms*