Rectal Cancer after preoperative chemoradiation: analysis of tumor downstaging, sphincter preservation, and quality of life in a randomized study comparing two neoadjuvant regimens

Abstract

Introduction: Colorectal cancer in Brazil is the 3rd most frequent cancer in men and 2nd in woman. Neoadjuvant chemoradiation (CRT) followed by surgery is the standard of care for locally advanced rectal cancer. Capecitabine is an oral alternative to 5-FU, but increased response rates have not been proven. Quality of Life (QOL) after rectal resection is frequently impaired and sphincter preservation can result in poor functional outcomes.