Functional outcome following restorative rectal cancer surgery.
The trend towards preoperative adjuvant and neoadjuvant therapies in selected patients with rectal cancer has led to increases in sphincter preservation with a limited understanding of the factors governing unsatisfactory functional outcomes. Data would suggest the need for a more selective use of standard radiotherapeutic fields in low- to intermediate-risk cases where there appears to be limited survival or locoregional recurrence benefit and where there is under-reported toxicity. This article discusses the complex factors which impact on functional outcome following open rectal cancer surgery particularly when it is accompanied by adjuvant therapy.
Zbar
A P
AP
University of New England.
Kennedy
P J
PJ
Singh
V
V
D039021:Colonic Pouches; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D006801:Humans; D016737:Proctocolectomy, Restorative; D012004:Rectal Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery* / Q000628:therapy; D012007:Rectum / Q000601:surgery