Predicting early recurrence in resectable rectal cancer.

We provide an editorial of recent findings on early recurrence (ER) in rectal cancer (RC), focusing on the study on ER of resectable RC by Tsai et al. The study established an 8-month recurrence-free survival cut-off for differentiating ER from late recurrence, with implications for postrecurrence survival and overall survival. This offers not only a valuable timeframe for enhancing surveillance strategies in patients at higher risk, especially those who have undergone neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT), but also raises questions about its applicability across different populations. Furthermore, the article suggests that while CRT is very effective in reducing locoregional recurrence, this treatment alone may not fully address the overall risk of ER. The authors advocate for personalized risk assessment and intensive surveillance during the postoperative period to improve outcomes, particularly in the first year. Future research should focus on larger, multicenter studies and incorporate advanced diagnostic techniques with genetic and molecular biomarkers to enhance prediction and management of ER. The ultimate goal is to refine treatment and surveillance strategies to improve survival and quality of life for patients with RC.