title: Defining the rectum: surgically, radiologically and anatomically.
abstract: The terminology used in relation to the rectum varies considerably, added to this there is the subjective nature of clinical assessment and variability in the anatomy of the rectum and anus. It is imperative that definitions are clarified and standardized for use by all members of the multidisciplinary team involved in the care of patients with rectal cancer.
authors.affiliation: Pelican Cancer Foundation, North Hampshire Hospital, Basingstoke, UK.
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Salerno
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Sinnatamby
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Branagan
authors.forename: I R
authors.initials: IR
authors.lastname: Daniels
authors.forename: R J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Heald
authors.forename: B J
authors.initials: BJ
authors.lastname: Moran
mesh_terms: D001003:Anal Canal / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000601:surgery; D003082:Colectomy / Q000145:classification / Q000379:methods*; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000145:classification / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008643:Mesentery / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D009367:Neoplasm Staging / Q000379:methods; D012007:Rectum / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000601:surgery; D009626:Terminology as Topic