Clinical Criteria Underestimate Complete Pathological Response in Rectal Cancer Treated With Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy

Abstract

The majority of patients attaining ypT0 status do not display mucosal features of complete response. When present, a mucosal complete response is statistically associated with ypT0 status, but is poorly sensitive. If rectal conservation after chemoradiation is to be pursued, alternative means of restaging are required to maximize the number who might benefit from this approach.