Factors Influencing Outcomes and Survival in Anal Cancer.

Background: We aim to ascertain prognostic factors in the current management of anal cancer within this study.

Methods: We reviewed the management and outcomes of anal cancer cases over a seven-year period, inclusive (2016-2023). The primary objectives were to assess the demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, and outcomes of all anal cancer patients within our institution.

Complement is increased in treatment resistant rectal cancer and modulates radioresistance.

Resistance to neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (neo-CRT) is a significant clinical problem in the treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer. Identification of novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers predicting therapeutic response is required to improve patient outcomes. Increasing evidence supports a role for the complement system in resistance to anti-cancer therapy.

The Optimal Approach to Surgical Management of Goblet Cell Carcinoid of the Appendix: A Systematic Review.

Introduction: Goblet cell carcinoid (GCC) is a rare and poorly understood appendiceal neoplasm, exhibiting mixed histological and aggressive clinical features. Current guidelines recommend right hemicolectomy in all cases, although there is conflicting evidence that appendicectomy alone may be sufficient. This review aims to identify the optimal surgical management for appendiceal GCC.

Assessing circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) as a prognostic biomarker in locally advanced rectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Introduction: Circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) has emerged as a promising biomarker in various cancer types, including locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC), offering potential insights into disease progression, treatment response and recurrence. This review aims to comprehensively evaluate the utility of ctDNA as a prognostic biomarker in LARC.

Methods: PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science were searched as part of our review.

Robotic transanal minimally invasive surgery (R-TAMIS): current evidence in the treatment of early rectal neoplasia.

Introduction: Robotic transanal minimally invasive surgery (R-TAMIS) was introduced in 2012 for the excision of benign rectal polyps and low grade rectal cancer. Ergonomic improvements over traditional laparoscopic TAMIS (L-TAMIS) include increased dexterity within a small operative field, with possibility of better surgical precision. We aim to collate the existing data surrounding the use of R-TAMIS to treat rectal neoplasms from cohort studies and larger case series, providing a foundation for future, large-scale, comparative studies.