ENDOLUMINAL RADIOTHERAPY FOR RECTAL TUMORS

The present study was performed to evaluate local tumor control and si de effects of endoluminal radiotherapy given to patients with rectal t umors. Twelve patients with adenocarcinoma and 10 patients with villou s/adenovilious adenomas were treated with curative intent from 1989 to 1995. The majority of patients were of advanced age and in poor medic al condition, and had previously been found unable to undergo radical surgery or colostomy. Three patients had tumor remains following radio therapy, they successfully received local surgery (n = 2) or an iridiu m implant (n = 1) as second-line treatment. Two patients (adenomas) la ter experienced a local relapse. No serious side effects were observed . We conclude that endoluminal radiotherapy is an efficacious option f or patients with malignant or premalignant tumors in the lower rectum who are in poor medical condition.