Does the possibility of no surgery in watch and wait for rectal cancer affect patient decision-making?

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Authors

Joanna F. Wasvary, Oakland University William Beaumont Medical Student
Ga-ram Han
Jacob A. Applegarth, Corewell Health East Resident
Matthew A. Ziegler, Corewell Health East

Description

INTRODUCTION & OBJECTIVE

Prior studies have established that the watch and wait protocol for rectal cancer is a reasonable approach in patients with excellent response to total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT). Current guidelines stipulate that patients eligible for this protocol have no residual tumor on re-staging imaging and endoscopy. Patients who have evidence of residual disease are referred for surgery. This study assessed all patients in our institution who underwent TNT for rectal cancer and the subsequent recommendations for treatment. Primary aim: assess patient compliance with surgeon recommendations for residual disease after TNT.

Secondary aim: assessment of oncologic outcomes and the rate of complete pathologic response after surgery.

Publication Date

5-2025

Disciplines

Surgery

Recommended Citation

Wasvary JF, Han G, Applegarth JA, Ziegler MA. Does the possibility of no surgery in watch and wait for rectal cancer affect patient decision-making?. Poster presented at: Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine Embark Capstone Colloquium; 2025 May; Rochester Hills, MI.

Comments

The Embark Capstone Colloquium at the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester Hills, MI, May, 2025.