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Local Recurrence after Resection of Colorectal Cancer

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Advances in Abdominal Surgery 2002

Abstract

Despite therapeutical progress in the last 20 years, locoregional recurrence (LR) after a preceding colorectal resection remains a common and at the same time arduous clinical problem. The frequency of LR, calculated as being about a mean 16%, should be considered as underestimated. The most frequent cause of recurrence is neoplastic microfoci, not included in the initial exeresis; however, the implantation of exfoliated tumour cells and metachronous carcinogenesis may also be responsible. The pathological stage of the primary tumour is considered to be the most important risk factor for LR, although the experience of the surgeon seems also to greatly influence the risk of recurrence. The prevention of LR is in fact based on the correct therapeutic approach to the initial neoplasm. An intensive follow-up programme allows for early diagnosis of recurrence, and increases the possibilities of therapy although these are somewhat limited. Initially, anastomotic LR offers greater possibilities of curative exeresis. Perianastomotic recurrences, however, prove to be in most cases inoperable; palliative surgery is possible in only a few cases.

Colo-rectal cancer is the second most frequent cause of death from cancer, and its incidence is rising throughout the western world. Despite therapeutic progress in the last 20 years, locoregional recurrence (LR), after a preceding colorectal resection, remains a common and at the same time arduous clinical problem. The onset of recurrence affects the prognosis; pelvic recurrences can also seriously compromise the quality of life of the patient.

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  1. Department of Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy

    Leopoldo Sarli, Giuseppe Sgobba, Renato Costi & Luigi Roncoroni

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  1. Leopoldo Sarli
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  1. Department of Surgery, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy

    Attilio Maria Farinon (Professor of Surgery and Chairman) (Professor of Surgery and Chairman)

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Sarli, L., Sgobba, G., Costi, R., Roncoroni, L. (2002). Local Recurrence after Resection of Colorectal Cancer. In: Farinon, A.M. (eds) Advances in Abdominal Surgery 2002. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-017-0637-7_17

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