Effect of preoperative radio(chemo)therapy on long-term functional outcome in rectal cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Preoperative radio(chemo)therapy (pR(C)T) significantly reduces the local recurrence risk and is therefore recommended in stage II/III rectal cancer. However, this multimodal treatment approach may be associated with late adverse effects. To determine the impact of pR(C)T on long-term anorectal, sexual, and urinary function, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis.