A man in his 50s accidentally discovered a malignant tumor 3 cm from the rectum during a health check-up. Colonoscopy and abdominal CT scans revealed partial obstruction and invasion into the pelvic lymph nodes, diagnosing him with stage 3B rectal adenocarcinoma.
Dr. Wen-Yen Huang, an attending physician in the Radiation Oncology Department at the Tri-Service General Hospital, stated that after a multidisciplinary team discussion, it was decided to arrange a comprehensive neoadjuvant therapy for the patient. The treatment regimen included five sessions of short-course pelvic radiation therapy and 12 weeks of chemotherapy.
Dr. Wen-Yen Huang, Tri-Service General Hospital Photo / HEHO Health
Considering the patient's strong desire to maintain his quality of life and preserve the anus, the team used a magnetic resonance-guided therapy (MRgRT). This approach utilized daily treatment plan adjustments and real-time monitoring of the treatment target, allowing for precise targeting of the rectal tumor with only minor side effects. The patient was able to return to normal work within the same week, and the tumor was completely eradicated.
