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Review
. 2014 Jun;5(3):212-7.
doi: 10.3978/j.issn.2078-6891.2014.031.

Novel radiation techniques for rectal cancer

Arthur Sun Myint  1
Affiliations
Review

Novel radiation techniques for rectal cancer

Arthur Sun Myint. J Gastrointest Oncol. 2014 Jun.

Abstract

The concepts for management of rectal cancer have changed drastically over the past few years. Through national bowel cancer screening programmes in the Western countries and the increasing use of endoscopic procedures as diagnostic tool, there is increase in detection of rectal cancer in early stages. There is increase in ageing population worldwide but more so in Western countries. In addition, there is realisation of harm from extirpative surgical procedures which are directed towards managing advanced rectal cancer in the past. Increase in cost of health care burden has also led the investigators to seek alternative treatment options which are effective, safe and cost effective. There are several modern radiation techniques which fits this bill and we need to be aware of newer novel radiation techniques to fulfil this gap.

Keywords: Early rectal cancer; X-ray contact; complete clinical response brachytherapy.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
(A) Showing polypoidal tumour pre-treatment (day 1); (B) showing regression of tumour after one fraction (day 14); (C) showing complete regression of tumour after two fractions (day 28). Example of a good responder.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Showing multiple channels in flexible rectal applicator. Treatment is loaded towards residual tumour thus sparing the contra lateral uninvolved rectal mucosa.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Showing treatment position for high dose rate (HDR) rectal brachytherapy.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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