[Rectal Cancer: Optimal Preoperative Diagnostics]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Radiology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Preoperative diagnostics are crucial for determining the extent of rectal cancer spread.
• Accurate staging impacts surgical strategy and treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline essential preoperative diagnostic methods for rectal cancer.
• To detail local and systemic staging procedures for rectal cancer.

Main Methods:

• Local staging: rectoscopy, MRI pelvis, endosonography.
• Systemic staging: chest X-ray, abdominal ultrasound, CT scans.
• Tumour markers (CEA) and colonoscopy for secondary malignancy detection.

Main Results:

• MRI assesses tumour height, invasion, mesorectal fascia distance, and extramural vascular invasion.
• Imaging protocols are specified for lower and upper rectal cancers.
• Guidelines recommend specific imaging for metastasis detection and colonoscopy to rule out synchronous colorectal cancer.

Conclusions:

• Comprehensive preoperative diagnostics are vital for effective rectal cancer management.
• Integrated imaging and endoscopic techniques ensure accurate local and systemic staging.
• Adherence to guidelines ensures optimal surgical planning and patient outcomes.