Introduction

Abstract

At the present time, more and more attention is being paid to the policy of conservative treatment for tumours usually treated by radical measures. This is so in the case of tumours of the larynx, of the breast, of the limbs, and more recently of the rectum and anus. Such trends are designed to give each patient not only a good chance of control of his disease, but also an improved quality of life. However, malignant tumours are known to spread into surrounding tissues and regional lymph nodes, and the principle of cancer surgery consists of a wide excision of the site of the primary tumour together with tissues bearing lymph nodes. Therefore controversy has developed between the staunch defenders of the systematic radical approach and the protagonists of a more selective conservative approach. Conservative treatment may be considered only if the following conditions are met:

• 1. The cure rate after conservative treatment must be at least equal to that following the radical procedures.

• 2. The preservation of the organ must be complete from both the anatomical and functional points of view.

• 3. In cases of failure of conservative attempts, subsequent surgery must be able to be performed without giving rise to a high incidence of complications.