A new classification system for colorectal cancer (CRC) could transform surgical decision-making and patient outcomes.

• CRC is divided into four molecular subtypes: CMS1 (15%), CMS2 (40%), CMS3 (13%), and CMS4 (22%), each linked to different survival rates and treatment responses.
• CMS2 shows the best survival, while CMS4 has the worst outcomes; CMS1 responds well to immunotherapy.

This classification aims to personalize therapy, yet challenges with intratumoral heterogeneity and technical barriers persist.

• Advances in single-cell sequencing and standardized testing could enhance clinical adoption and improve results.