Author commentary on Maria Eva Argenziano et al.

Maria Eva Argenziano et al. Diagnostic accuracy of the muscle-retracting sign for determining deep submucosal invasion in early rectal cancer: a prospective observational study

In this first prospective study on the muscle-retracting sign during endoscopic resection of rectal neoplasms, the authors found that, in 38 patients, the sign could serve as a reliable indicator of deep submucosal invasion, with 80% sensitivity and 87% specificity. Its use may guide real-time decisions on resection strategy, including intermuscular dissection, full-thickness resection, or surgery.

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Publication History

Article published online:
27 November 2025