Total neoadjuvant therapy reduces toxicity in locally advanced rectal cancer

Sara Lonardi, MD, Veneto Institute of Oncology, Padua, Italy, discusses multimodal treatment approaches for locally advanced rectal cancer, which typically involves chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery to address tumors with high or medium-high risk factors. Total neoadjuvant therapy, delivered before surgery, enables comprehensive chemotherapy and radiation with more acceptable toxicity profiles compared to adjuvant treatment. This preoperative approach demonstrates promising data regarding disease-free survival and overall survival outcomes. This interview took place at the 2026 European Society of Surgical Oncology (ESSO) Annual Meeting in Madrid, Spain. These works are owned by Magdalen Medical Publishing (MMP) and are protected by copyright laws and treaties around the world. All rights are reserved.