Paradigm Shifts in the Diagnosis and Neoadjuvant Treatment of Rectal Cancer

CME Credit Hours: 1.25

Neoadjuvant therapy has been a well-established component of rectal cancer treatment. Increasing understanding of the heterogeneity of rectal cancer has led to the recognition that a one-size-fits-all neoadjuvant regimen is suboptimal. Recently, a variety of neoadjuvant regimens have been investigated. This symposium will provide surgeons with a comprehensive understanding of the oncologic outcomes and toxicity profiles associated with the various regimens and to provide a framework for tailoring neoadjuvant therapy to an individual patient’s tumor.

Objectives

At the conclusion of this session, participants should be able to:

  1. Recognize radiographic features that correlate with favorable vs. unfavorable prognosis
  2. Describe the key distinguishing features associated with short vs. long course pelvic radiation
  3. Explain the different neoadjuvant chemotherapy regimens and their side effects

Co-Directors 

Y. Nancy You, MD, Houston, TX
Matthew Silviera, MD, St. Louis, MO


Introduction- Defining the Goal and Understanding the Trade-offs
Y. Nancy You, MD, Houston, TX

Tools for Risk Stratifying Rectal Cancers
Marc Gollub, MD, New York, NY

Radiation: When is Less More
Bashar Safar, MD, Baltimore, MD

Chemotherapy: Options and Outcomes
Maria Widmar, MD, MPH, New York, NY

Putting it All Together: Matching the Tool with the Goal
Eric Dozois, MD, Rochester, NY

Case Presentation and Question and Answer
Matthew Silviera, MD, St. Louis, MO

Adjourn