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Selective non-operative management of distal rectal cancer: The Watch & Wait Protocol

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Abstract

The observation of improved local disease control with the use of preoperative chemoradiation (CRT) for locally advanced rectal cancer established this treatment strategy as one the preferred initial approaches for this disease. Interestingly, the benefits of preoperative CRT were not restricted to local recurrence rates but also included reduced toxicity rates compared to postoperative CRT, significant tumor downstaging and downsizing, greater rates of sphincter preservation, and better functional results [1, 2].

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Correspondence to Angelita Habr-Gama MD .

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Habr-Gama, A., Perez, R.O., Lynn, P.B., São Julião, G.P., Gama Rodrigues, J.J. (2012). Selective non-operative management of distal rectal cancer: The Watch & Wait Protocol. In: Schiessel, R., Metzger, P. (eds) Intersphincteric Resection for Low Rectal Tumors. Springer, Vienna. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-7091-0929-8_4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-7091-0929-8_4

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