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Insights into Imaging
Published in: Insights into Imaging 1/2019

Open Access 01-12-2019 | Magnetic Resonance Imaging | Educational Review

Role of magnetic resonance imaging in organ-preserving strategies for the management of patients with rectal cancer

Authors: Cinthia D. Ortega, Rodrigo O. Perez

Published in: Insights into Imaging | Issue 1/2019

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Abstract

Total mesorectal excision has been the most effective treatment strategy adopted to reduce local recurrence rates among patients with rectal cancer. The morbidity associated with this radical surgical procedure led surgeons to challenge the standard therapy particularly when dealing with superficial lesions or good responders after neoadjuvant radiotherapy, to which radical surgery may be considered overtreatment. In this subset of patients, less invasive procedures in an organ-preserving strategy may result in good oncological and functional outcomes. In order to tailor the most appropriate treatment option, accurate baseline staging and reassessment of tumor response are relevant. MRI is the most robust tool for the precise selection of patients that are candidates for organ preservation; therefore, radiologists must be familiar with the criteria used to guide the management of these patients. The purpose of this article is to review the relevant features that radiologists should know in order to provide valuable information during the multidisciplinary discussion and ultimate management decision.
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Metadata
Title
Role of magnetic resonance imaging in organ-preserving strategies for the management of patients with rectal cancer
Authors
Cinthia D. Ortega
Rodrigo O. Perez
Publication date
01-12-2019
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
Insights into Imaging / Issue 1/2019
Electronic ISSN: 1869-4101
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13244-019-0742-6

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