Tumor stage is the main criterion to estimate prognosis in rectal cancer patients. The position of the tumor within the circumference of the rectum may provide valuable clinical information. Anterior tumors tend to be more advanced and, at least in male patients, has a higher risk of recurrence and death than tumors in other locations.
Endorectal ultrasound identifies one-third of asymptomatic local recurrences that were missed by digital examination or proctoscopic examination. However, the impact of the earlier diagnosis in patient survival can only be determined by a larger, prospective, randomized trial.
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