Advancements in Surgical Technology Transform Outcomes for Distal Rectal Cancer Patients

Over two decades, integrating robotic surgery, high-resolution MRI, and the watch-and-wait strategy dramatically improved oncological outcomes for locally advanced distal rectal cancer patients. Five-year overall survival rates soared from 78% to nearly 92%, while disease-free survival increased from 67% to 80%. Additionally, permanent stoma-free survival rates rose from 56% to 86%. This evolution reflects a significant shift in treatment approaches enhancing patient quality of life alongside survival.