Management of recurrent rectal cancer

Background: Here we present a concise review on the evaluation and management of locally recurrent rectal cancer, which despite marked reductions in the rate of recurrent rectal cancer remains an important problem. Methods: This educational review discusses the diagnosis, evaluation, and management of recurrent rectal cancer. Results: Despite improvements in both the neoadjuvant and surgical management of rectal cancer, local recurrence is still an important problem, with documented recurrence rates of 4% to 8%. The local management of recurrence requires a team of specialist. Accurate detection and diagnosis followed by chemoradiotherapy and surgical resection may result in 5-year survival rates of up to 35%. Conclusions: We discuss the diagnosis, evaluation, and management of locally recurrent rectal cancer. Locally recurrent rectal cancer can be successfully managed with multimodal therapy leading to successful palliation and often cure.