Positive circumferential resection margins following locally advanced colon cancer surgery: Risk factors and survival impact

Abstract

Positive CRM rates exceeded 10% nationally and have an adverse impact on survival. While several tumor characteristics were identified as independent risk factors, oncologic resections and surgery at high-volume centers were associated with lower rates of positive CRM. These findings emphasize the need for process improvement initiatives targeting modifiable factors, including adoption of appropriate oncologic techniques, standardized pathology reporting, and potential neoadjuvant strategies.