[Value of endoscopic assessment and local excision in diagnosing clinical complete response after neoadjuvant therapy...

This article systematically explores the synergistic value of endoscopic evaluation and local resection techniques in diagnosing clinical complete response (cCR) after neoadjuvant therapy for rectal cancer. Endoscopic techniques, including high-definition narrow-band imaging, endoscopic ultrasound, and confocal laser endomicroscopy, significantly improve the detection rate of microscopic residual lesions and provide objective evidence for clinical decision-making through standardized scoring systems. Local resection techniques, serving as both pathological verification and minimally invasive treatment, offer organ preservation opportunities for patients with cCR. The integrated three-step diagnostic pathway of "endoscopic screening-radiological reassessment-local resection confirmation" enhances the specificity of cCR diagnosis while reducing unnecessary radical surgeries. However, standardizing technical implementation, deepening multidisciplinary collaboration, and integrating molecular diagnostics remain critical directions for future development.