Modern Approaches to Rectal Cancer: Integrating Endoscopic, Surgical, and Oncological Care

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The presented article is a review of modern treatments for colorectal cancer. I believe the authors have done a great job of summarizing the findings. Major points: Much time is spent describing well-established techniques; however, more modern treatment techniques are explained succinctly. Minor points: Does liquid biopsy have a relevant role in colorectal carcinoma? Explain in detail. Discuss the value of endorectal ultrasound in staging. The role of techniques such as TAMIS. In our experience, there is considerable disagreement between ultrasound and pathology regarding tumor T.

Author Response

Please see the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

Overall this review summaries the multimodal management of rectal cancer. It is a good primer for reviewing the field.

While I appreciate it is a massive field, there are some suggestions for improvement.

First, the PROSPECT trial should be included, along with a short discussion of attempts for therapy desclation.

Second, a short description of watch and wait protocols should be included.

Third, I would recommend a short section on multidisciplinary tumor boards and what cases ought to be presented, as as well as the members that should be present. 

 

Author Response

Please see the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Round 2

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors We thank the authors for following the referees' instructions. This is a thorough and well-structured review.