Preface

Before the 1980s, surgery for colorectal cancer had a high mortality rate according to the incidence of side effects, including pelvic failure. In trials from the 1980s to the 1990s, the combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy greatly contributed to overcoming the shortcomings of conventional treatment, which relied entirely on surgery and improved the survival rate, making it possible to routinely manage patients with advanced stages of colorectal cancer. In recent years, as the surgical experience in developed countries has increased, it has become possible to manage cancer through a delicate level of local control. Additionally, since chemo- and targeted agents, which are approved as new agents every year, can significantly improve the prognosis of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, the approach to treating colorectal cancer using conventional therapies and new therapeutics in combination has been standardized worldwide. Unfortunately, however, the integration of these drugs reduces patient quality of life due to the induction of acute toxicity and thus alternatives are needed. Nevertheless, the use of these agents as radiosensitizers for the treatment of rectal cancer could potentially lead to reduced staging and increased rates of pathological complete response, so we must keep in mind that those therapies can be a double-edged sword. As such, it is important to improve our understanding of the various colorectal cancer treatments currently available. This book presents a comprehensive overview of the latest diagnostics, surgical technology, interventional radiology, and supportive care for colorectal cancer and highlights how conventional strategies are gradually being improved by the application of advanced science and technology. The information contained herein is presented from a multidisciplinary perspective, allowing for a broader discussion of colorectal cancer treatment.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the authors for their hard work and contributions.

> **Keun-Yeong Jeong** PearlsinMires, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Technology Officer, Seoul, Republic of Korea

**1**

Section 1

Introduction

Section 1 Introduction
