Current protocols and outcomes of local therapy for rectal cancer

Rectal cancer is a devastating disease, with patients fearing the disease and the potential treatments that may alter sexual function, genitourinary function, and overall body image. Defining the precise role for less morbid approaches to this disease, such as local excision, is of critical importance in providing optimal care in the future. This article discusses endocavitary radiation and fulguration, local excision, and prospective studies.