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Oncologic Surgical Emergencies

Part of the book series: Hot Topics in Acute Care Surgery and Trauma ((HTACST))

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Abstract

Approximately 30% of patients with colorectal cancer present in the emergent setting despite increased availability and utilization of screening tests. There are three common emergent presentation scenarios: obstruction, bleeding, and perforation. In most circumstances, CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is the diagnostic test of choice, as obstruction, large masses, and distant metastatic disease can be evaluated. When feasible, management of these emergencies should address life-threatening acute disease, while still optimizing oncologic outcomes, and can include resection, diversion, stenting, or endoscopy depending on the clinical circumstances. In cases of advanced rectal cancer warranting palliative treatment, a multidisciplinary approach should be taken with shared decision-making, taking into consideration the patient’s priorities and anticipated life expectancy.

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Correspondence to Vanessa P. Ho .

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Han, Gr., Brady, J.T., Sonbol, M.B., Ho, V.P. (2023). Rectum. In: Tarasconi, A., Bui, S., Chirica, M., Roth, G., Nahmias, J. (eds) Oncologic Surgical Emergencies. Hot Topics in Acute Care Surgery and Trauma. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-36860-8_11

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-36860-8_11

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