[Total mesorectal excision and preoperative radiotherapy in patients with rectal carcinoma: good preliminary results]

The value of a short course of radiotherapy prior to total mesorectal excision was studied in patients with resectable rectal cancer. The new surgical technique of total mesorectal excision was introduced under appropriate supervision and gave favourable treatment results. The incidence of local recurrence was markedly reduced by preoperative radiotherapy. Long term results should give greater insight into potential improvements in survival rates and any late side effects which may arise as a result of the radiation schedule.