Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Alone Lowers Surgical Risks in Rectal Cancer

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy without radiation significantly reduces anastomotic leaks, diverting ostomy use, and ostomy non-reversal in locally advanced rectal cancer patients. In a meta-analysis of four randomized controlled trials, chemotherapy was found equivalent or non-inferior to chemoradiation for oncologic outcomes. However, critical surgical outcomes remain inadequately reported, highlighting a need for standardized assessment in future studies. The approach shows promise in improving postoperative results while maintaining equivalent cancer control.