[Current principles of surgical treatment for early colorectal neoplasms]

A distinct correlation between tumor process expansion within the large bowel wall and dissemination has been established thus suggesting a concept of early colorectal cancer. Indications for limited surgery for early large bowel cancers are discussed. Both local excision and standard radical surgery offer practically the same advantage in cases of carcinoma located within mucosa and the submucosal layer of the intestinal wall.