Imaging of presacral masses--a multidisciplinary approach

Our objective is to describe an approach for retrorectal/presacral mass evaluation on imaging with attention to imaging features, allowing for refinement of the differential diagnosis of these masses. Elaborate on clinically relevant features that may affect biopsy or surgical approach, of which the radiologist should be aware. A review of current literature regarding the diagnosis and treatment of retrorectal/presacral masses was performed with attention to specific findings, which may lend refinement to the differential diagnosis of these masses. Cases were obtained by searching through a radiology database at a single institution after Institutional Review Board approval. Recent advances in imaging and treatment methods have led to the increased role of radiology in both imaging and tissue diagnosis of retrorectal masses. Surgical philosophies surrounding the treatment of these masses have not significantly changed in recent years, but there are a few key factors of which the radiologist must be aware. The radiologist can offer refinement of the differential diagnosis of retrorectal masses and can elaborate on salient findings which could alter the need for neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy, pre-surgical tissue diagnosis and surgical approach. This article presents an imaging approach to retrorectal/presacral masses with emphasis on findings which can dictate the ultimate need for neoadjuvant therapy and pre-surgical tissue diagnosis and alter the preferred surgical approach. This article consolidates key findings, so radiologists can become more clinically relevant in the evaluation of these masses.