{"title":"Baseline assessment of rectal cancer – how baseline features affect contemporary management of rectal cancer","authors":"Monique Maas MD PhD","doi":"10.1016/j.scrs.2026.101173","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scrs.2026.101173","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Treatment strategies for primary rectal cancer have evolved from a uniform surgical approach with total mesorectal excision (TME) toward increasingly personalized, risk-adapted strategies aimed at long-term local and distant control but also organ preservation. This shift has fundamentally changed the role of baseline MRI, from purely anatomical staging toward imaging-driven treatment selection. At primary staging, the key clinical question is no longer only resectability, but whether escalation, de-escalation, or organ-preserving strategies are appropriate. Therefore, radiologists plays a pivotal role in identifying prognostic and predictive imaging features that guide treatment decisions. These include tumor subtype, height and location using the sigmoid take-off, depth of extramural invasion, involvement of the mesorectal fascia, and invasion beyond the mesorectal compartment. In addition, pathways of tumor spread such as extramural venous invasion (EMVI), tumor deposits, and nodal disease (including lateral node involvment) are critical factors in staging and treatment. As EMVI and tumor deposits have emerged as stronger predictors of outcome than mesorectal nodal status, recent guidelines have reduced the emphasis on detailed cN subclassification while stressing the importance of reporting high-risk features that directly influence neoadjuvant treatment selection. Accurate identification and communication of these findings are essential for multidisciplinary decision-making. Given the central role of MRI in contemporary rectal cancer management, radiologists must move beyond structured anatomical reporting toward decision-oriented interpretation and take on an active role in multidisciplinary teams. Future advances in integrated diagnostics will further strengthen the radiologist’s role in personalized rectal cancer treatment.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55956,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Colon and Rectal Surgery","volume":"37 2","pages":"Article 101173"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148776564","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A plea for local excision as the initial treatment strategy","authors":"R. Hompes MD, PhD, J.B. Tuynman","doi":"10.1016/j.scrs.2026.101179","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scrs.2026.101179","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The widespread implementation of colorectal cancer screening has led to a substantial increase in the diagnosis of early-stage rectal cancer, necessitating treatment strategies that maximize organ preservation without compromising oncological outcomes. Although total mesorectal excision (TME) remains the standard of care, its considerable morbidity and long-term functional consequences contrast with the relatively low risk of lymph node metastasis in appropriately selected early rectal cancers. This review advocates a local excision first strategy as the preferred initial approach for early rectal cancer. Beyond its therapeutic role, local excision provides definitive histopathological staging, enabling individualized risk stratification and selective escalation to completion TME, adjuvant chemoradiotherapy, or close surveillance when indicated. Contemporary evidence demonstrates that this stepwise, risk-adapted approach achieves high rates of organ preservation while maintaining excellent oncological outcomes. Advances in local excision techniques, imaging, and pathological risk assessment have further strengthened this paradigm. Local excision should therefore be regarded not as an alternative to radical surgery, but as the cornerstone of modern management for early rectal cancer, reserving radical treatment for the minority of patients who truly require it.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55956,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Colon and Rectal Surgery","volume":"37 2","pages":"Article 101179"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148776565","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Megan Delisle, Kilian G.M. Brown, Kelly Sanders, J. Joshua Smith
{"title":"The Evolving Role of Organ Preservation in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer","authors":"Megan Delisle, Kilian G.M. Brown, Kelly Sanders, J. Joshua Smith","doi":"10.1016/j.scrs.2026.101170","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scrs.2026.101170","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Organ preservation is a standard-of-care option for select patients with locally advanced rectal cancer, allowing avoidance of a proctectomy without compromising oncologic outcomes. As compared with (chemo)radiation alone, total neoadjuvant therapy, which delivers both (chemo)radiation and chemotherapy before surgery, increases clinical complete (cCR) and near clinical complete (nCR) response rates and may expand eligibility for organ preservation. Eligibility is determined through a standardized response assessment, which incorporates digital rectal examination, endoscopy, and rectal protocol magnetic resonance imaging, which are performed and interpreted by experienced clinicians. Patients with a cCR/nCR may defer immediate surgery with the view to potential organ preservation, provided they adhere to intensive ‘watch and wait’ surveillance every 3–6 months for 5 years to enable early detection of local regrowth and timely salvage. In carefully selected patients managed within experienced programs, organ preservation achieves oncologic outcomes comparable to immediate surgery and may improve functional and quality-of-life outcomes. Ongoing research focuses on personalizing neoadjuvant therapy to balance response and toxicity and on developing more accurate and feasible approaches for detecting residual disease and regrowth.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55956,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Colon and Rectal Surgery","volume":"37 2","pages":"Article 101170"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148775937","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Local excision as a component of organ preservation in rectal cancer","authors":"Barbara Noiret MD, Quentin Denost MD, PhD","doi":"10.1016/j.scrs.2026.101172","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scrs.2026.101172","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>The management of rectal cancer has evolved with the widespread adoption of total neoadjuvant therapy, leading to higher rates of tumor regression and complete response. While total mesorectal excision (TME) remains the oncologic standard, it is associated with substantial short- and long-term functional morbidity. These developments have prompted increasing interest in organ-preservation (OP) strategies, in which local excision (LE) plays an increasingly important role.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This narrative review summarizes current evidence on OP strategies centered on LE, including the impact of neoadjuvant treatment, available surgical techniques, indications across clinical scenarios, and functional and oncologic outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>In carefully selected patients, LE provides acceptable oncologic outcomes in early rectal cancer and in good responders after neoadjuvant therapy. Within response-adapted strategies, LE facilitates pathological assessment of tumor response and allows rectal preservation in a substantial proportion of patients, with lower morbidity and improved functional outcomes compared with TME. LE may also be used selectively for local regrowth within watch-and-wait protocols, acknowledging the higher morbidity associated with completion surgery when required.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>LE is an integral component of contemporary, response-driven rectal cancer management. When appropriately selected and discussed within a multidisciplinary framework, it supports OP while maintaining oncologic safety and limiting long-term functional impairment.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55956,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Colon and Rectal Surgery","volume":"37 2","pages":"Article 101172"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148775938","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Radiation‑sparing strategies in rectal cancer: Avoiding LARS without compromising oncologic outcomes","authors":"Zarrukh Baig MD MPH, Carl Brown MD MSc","doi":"10.1016/j.scrs.2026.101180","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scrs.2026.101180","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>For patients with rectal cancer, neoadjuvant radiotherapy combined with total mesorectal excision surgery has revolutionized treatment, leading to significant improvement in local recurrence and survival. However, functional outcomes (i.e. gastrointestinal, sexual, genitourinary) are compromised by this treatment combination in many patients. Further, pelvic radiotherapy is an important option in patients with rectal cancer recurrence, prostate and gynecologic cancers and is unavailable if used as first line treatment in rectal cancer. As such, emerging use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy demonstrates promise in rectal cancer downstaging and recurrence prevention. In this paper, we will summarize the current evidence supporting radiation sparing strategies in multimodal treatment regimens for patients with rectal cancer.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55956,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Colon and Rectal Surgery","volume":"37 2","pages":"Article 101180"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148775939","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Postoperative venous thromboembolism after colon and rectal surgery","authors":"Hannah K. Holland MD , Timothy J. Ridolfi MD, MS","doi":"10.1016/j.scrs.2025.101163","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scrs.2025.101163","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Post-operative venous thromboembolism is a significant source of morbidity, mortality, and healthcare cost in patients undergoing colon and rectal surgery. Patients with colorectal disease are particularly vulnerable to venous thromboembolism formation due to the proinflammatory nature of their conditions and subsequent operative trauma. Tailored thromboprophylaxis strategies according to individualized risk assessments as well as use of evidence-based guidelines for venous thromboembolism treatment are essential in minimizing ongoing complications and avoiding post-operative bleeding. This review summarizes current prevention and management guidelines as well as future directions for improving postoperative venous thromboembolism related outcomes in colorectal surgery patients.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55956,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Colon and Rectal Surgery","volume":"37 1","pages":"Article 101163"},"PeriodicalIF":0.5,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147408064","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Nonhealing perineal wounds: Current strategies and emerging therapies","authors":"Laura M. Nicolais MD , Gerald Gantt MD","doi":"10.1016/j.scrs.2025.101161","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scrs.2025.101161","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Nonhealing perineal wounds remain a significant challenge following abdominoperineal resection (APR) for rectal cancer and other pelvic malignancies. Despite advancements in surgical techniques, wound complication rates remain high, particularly in the context of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and extensive pelvic dissection. This review examines the natural history of perineal wound healing, evaluates closure strategies including primary closure, flap reconstruction, and adjuncts such as omental pedicle flaps, and explores advanced and emerging therapies including hyperbaric oxygen, negative pressure wound therapy, and regenerative medicine. By synthesizing the current literature and highlighting risk factors for poor healing, we provide an evidence-based guide to optimizing outcomes in this complex and often debilitating complication.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55956,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Colon and Rectal Surgery","volume":"37 1","pages":"Article 101161"},"PeriodicalIF":0.5,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147408069","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Ahad Azimuddin , Saieesh A. Rao , Mohammad Ali Abbass
{"title":"Perineal Hernias: Diagnosis and surgical management","authors":"Ahad Azimuddin , Saieesh A. Rao , Mohammad Ali Abbass","doi":"10.1016/j.scrs.2025.101162","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scrs.2025.101162","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Perineal hernias are an uncommon but clinically significant condition faced by the colorectal surgeon, commonly as a complication following abdominoperineal resection or pelvic exenteration. Clinical presentation varies based on hernia size and contents, often involving gastrointestinal or urinary symptoms. Diagnosis primarily relies on clinical examination and cross-sectional imaging, with computed tomography as the preferred modality in acute settings. Although rare, perineal hernias can result in serious complications, including enterocutaneous fistulas, bowel obstruction, and herniation of pelvic organs. Management requires an individualized surgical approach based on defect size, hernia contents, and patient factors. Abdominal approaches, particularly open approaches, tend to offer lower recurrence rates compared to perineal repairs but are associated with longer recovery times. Mesh reinforcement is generally preferred for large defects, while flap reconstruction remains crucial for radiated or complex surgical fields. Despite advances in technique, recurrence remains a challenge, particularly following primary suture repairs. Reconstructions with synthetic mesh via abdominal or perineal approaches, with or without flaps, may provide the best outcomes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55956,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Colon and Rectal Surgery","volume":"37 1","pages":"Article 101162"},"PeriodicalIF":0.5,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147408063","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Postoperative adrenal insufficiency and perioperative steroid management","authors":"Lucille Y. Yao, Lisa M. Cannon","doi":"10.1016/j.scrs.2025.101159","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scrs.2025.101159","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Postoperative adrenal insufficiency (PAI) leading to refractory hypotension and resultant circulatory collapse is a rare but potentially devastating complication. In this review, we aim to describe the phenomenon of postoperative adrenal insufficiency, clarify approaches to management, and summarize current literature that informs management of perioperative steroids in the colorectal surgery patient population.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55956,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Colon and Rectal Surgery","volume":"37 1","pages":"Article 101159"},"PeriodicalIF":0.5,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147408067","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Postoperative ileus","authors":"Carine Dornbush MD , Jennifer Hrabe MD FACS FACRS","doi":"10.1016/j.scrs.2025.101160","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scrs.2025.101160","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Ileus is a prevalent and perplexing surgical phenomenon that adds to patient morbidity and hospital length of stay and cost. While many have studied this process, the underlying cause remains elusive, but risk factors have been identified. Additionally, enhanced recovery pathways have been developed to mitigate surgical risk in ileus development. This review will define ileus, and its impact as well discuss potential causes and treatment strategies that have been evaluated.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55956,"journal":{"name":"Seminars in Colon and Rectal Surgery","volume":"37 1","pages":"Article 101160"},"PeriodicalIF":0.5,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147408068","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}