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Review
. 2022 Apr;31(2):279-291.
doi: 10.1016/j.soc.2021.11.008. Epub 2022 Mar 9.

Neoadjuvant Therapy for Rectal Cancer

Felipe F Quezada-Diaz  1 , J Joshua Smith  2
Affiliations
Review

Neoadjuvant Therapy for Rectal Cancer

Felipe F Quezada-Diaz et al. Surg Oncol Clin N Am. 2022 Apr.

Abstract

The treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer is challenging and requires a multidisciplinary approach. Neoadjuvant treatment has improved local control by the combination of radiotherapy, surgery, and chemotherapy. However, neoadjuvant treatment has not yet been shown to improve overall survival and is associated with toxicities and late sequelae that impair the quality of life of patients. Currently, different types of neoadjuvant strategies have raised the question about which one is the optimal strategy for rectal cancer treatment. In this article, we explore the different neoadjuvant treatment regimens currently available, their associated benefits and toxicities, and novel approaches in this area.

Keywords: Chemoradiation; Neoadjuvant therapy; Rectal cancer; Short-course radiotherapy; Total neoadjuvant therapy.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure The authors have nothing to disclose.

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