Role of radiotherapy for resectable rectal cancer

摘要

The role of radiation therapy in the treatment of resectable rectal cancer is better defined than at any point in history; however, as technology improves, increasing treatment options can lead to better patient care when used appropriately with adequate training. Understanding the risk factors for local recurrence can assist in delivering individualized treatment options. Technological improvements such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy have the potential to decrease toxicity, but without adequate training, highly conformal treatment can result in undertreating or missing critical areas. This review will provide an overview of treatment and standard treatment options for resectable rectal cancer, as well as an update on the state of radiation therapy as it relates to rectal cancer and the use of intensity-modulated radiation therapy.