No abstract

Despite traditional beliefs that certain patient and tumor factors influence pCR, an extended interval between completion of neoadjuvant therapy and surgery was the single most important determinant in achieving a pCR.

Laparoscopic-assisted colectomy is safe and beneficial, including preservation of postoperative independence, to the elderly when compared with open colectomy.

Moderate variability in outcomes among surgeons was detected in this high-risk population. Efforts to improve surgical results will require changes in reporting practices to allow for more accurate assessment of the quality of surgery.