Abstract

The optimal approach to the diagnosis and treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer involves multidisciplinary, integrated management. In the past 30 years, survival and freedom from disease have increased, but the ideal multidisciplinary management remains to be determined. The preferred integrated treatment modality is preoperative radio(chemo)therapy followed by total mesorectal excision. Certain aspects of this standard are still debated, and the European and American approaches vary. The chief recommendations per international guidelines are summarized, and the next generation of integrated treatments for locally advanced rectal cancer is discussed.