[Results of radiotherapy in recurrent colorectal tumors]

65 patients are presented who have been irradiated at the Radiologic University Hospital of M unster for recurrences of colorectal carcinomas primarily operated upon. In 54 cases the recurrence was located in the small pelvis, in 6 cases within the anastomotic region. The other patients showed cutaneous manifestations or an infestation of adjacent intestinal segments. Apart from the volume occupied by the tumor, the symptoms were above all marked pains. In 62% (40 patients), these pains could be controlled. 30% (19 patients) reported a considerable subjective improvement and 32% (21 patients) a marked diminution of pains. In 20% (13 patients) no modification was achieved, and 12 patients reported a deterioration of troubles. A prolonged survival time after irradiation of the recurrence was observed in those patients irradiated with a focal dose of more than 40 Gy.