Management of recurrent rectal cancer.
BACKGROUND
Here we present a concise review on the evaluation and management of locally recurrent rectal cancer, which despite marked reductions in the rate of recurrent rectal cancer remains an important problem.


METHODS
This educational review discusses the diagnosis, evaluation, and management of recurrent rectal cancer.


RESULTS
Despite improvements in both the neoadjuvant and surgical management of rectal cancer, local recurrence is still an important problem, with documented recurrence rates of 4% to 8%. The local management of recurrence requires a team of specialist. Accurate detection and diagnosis followed by chemoradiotherapy and surgical resection may result in 5-year survival rates of up to 35%.


CONCLUSIONS
We discuss the diagnosis, evaluation, and management of locally recurrent rectal cancer. Locally recurrent rectal cancer can be successfully managed with multimodal therapy leading to successful palliation and often cure.
Bouchard
Philippe
P
Division of Colorectal Surgery, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, AZ, USA.
Efron
Jonathan
J
D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D006801:Humans; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D011379:Prognosis; D012004:Rectal Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*