Long-term Outcome of an Organ Preservation Program After Neoadjuvant Treatment for Rectal Cancer

Conclusions: Organ preservation appears oncologically safe for selected rectal cancer patients with a cCR or near cCR after neoadjuvant chemoradiation when applying strict selection criteria and frequent follow-up, including endoscopy and MRI. The low colostomy rate and the good long-term functional outcome warrant discussing this option with the patient as an alternative to major surgery.

Source: JNCI - August 9, 2016 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Martens, M. H., Maas, M., Heijnen, L. A., Lambregts, D. M. J., Leijtens, J. W. A., Stassen, L. P. S., Breukink, S. O., Hoff, C., Belgers, E. J., Melenhorst, J., Jansen, R., Buijsen, J., Hoofwijk, T. G. M., Beets-Tan, R. G. H., Beets, G. L. Tags: Article Source Type: research