Minimally Invasive Endoscopic and Surgical Management of Rectal Neoplasia

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Rectal cancer accounts for one-third of colorectal cancer cases annually. It is preventable with early screening and appropriate management of precancerous lesions. Advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are ongoing and have contributed to improving patient outcomes. In this review, we summarize the available minimally invasive endoscopic and surgical management options of rectal neoplasia. ABSTRACT: Rectal cancer demonstrates a characteristic natural history in which benign rectal neoplasia precedes malignancy. The worldwide burden of rectal cancer is significant, with rectal cancer accounting for one-third of colorectal cancer cases annually. The importance of early detection and successful management is essential in decreasing its clinical burden. Minimally invasive treatment of rectal neoplasia has evolved over the past several decades, which has led to reduced local recurrence rates and improved survival outcomes. The approach to diagnosis, staging, and selection of appropriate treatment modalities is a multidisciplinary effort combining interventional endoscopy, surgery, and radiology tools. This review examines the currently available minimally invasive endoscopic and surgical management options of rectal neoplasia.