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Clin Colon Rectal Surg
DOI: 10.1055/a-2771-7960
Review Article

Challenges of Implementing the “Watch” in Watch-and-Wait for Rectal Cancer

Authors

  • Bailey K. Hilty Chu

    1   Department of Surgery, Surgical Health Outcomes and Research Enterprise, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States

  • Anthony Loria

    1   Department of Surgery, Surgical Health Outcomes and Research Enterprise, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States

  • Fergal Fleming

    1   Department of Surgery, Surgical Health Outcomes and Research Enterprise, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States
    2   Division of Colorectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States
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Abstract

Nonoperative management, or watch-and-wait, is an increasingly utilized treatment strategy for locally advanced rectal cancer both in the United States and internationally. Studies demonstrate acceptable oncologic outcomes for patients with clinical complete response (cCR) and close surveillance compared with those who undergo surgery after neoadjuvant therapy, but this strategy relies on multiple key factors to achieve optimal outcomes. Implementing watch-and-wait raises new challenges throughout the course of rectal cancer care, from treatment decision-making and offering watch-and-wait, throughout the course of surveillance which involves patients, providers, systems, and policy.

Keywords

rectal cancer - watch-and-wait - nonoperative management - surveillance


Publication History

Article published online:
09 January 2026

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