Management of rectal neoplasia in hereditary colorectal cancer patients

Abstract

Determining the optimal treatment for rectal cancer is a complicated challenge on its own but requires even more careful consideration when it occurs in patients with a hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome. Ideally, these patients are identified early and followed closely to prevent cancer. If cancer does arise, the standardized strategy for rectal cancer treatment used for the general population must be tailored to address the concerns of risk for metachronous neoplasia and functional outcomes that are unique to these patients. The best surgical approach considers both the primary cancer as well as the remaining unstable colorectum, and thoughtful timing of multimodal therapies helps to avoid negative effects on bowel reconstruction to maintain quality of life.