Rectal and sigmoid cancer and radiotherapy

The authors reports on results of recent investigations into the effect of radiotherapy on rectal and sigmoid cancer. The radiosensitivity of the cancer is outlined and the arguments in favour of pre- and postoperative irradiation are discussed. The application of radiotherapy to locoregional recurrence or inoperable rectal cancer is considered. In these cases palliation is the main objective, though irradiation is also the most useful treatment to relieve pain and to diminish or stop rectal loss of blood, mucus and tumour discharge. The results of treatment on patients with a locoregional recurrence, inoperability or metastases are presented and indicate that radiotherapy is a very valuable tool. (C.F.)