A 75-year-old patient presented with a history of rectal bleeding for six months. Diagnostic evaluation using PET-CT and colonoscopy revealed stage III lower rectal cancer. Given the tumour location and stage, the conventional treatment pathway would typically involve chemotherapy and radiation followed by surgery, often resulting in a permanent bowel bag and long-term lifestyle impact.

MIOT’s Treatment Approach

At MIOT International, the case was reviewed by the multidisciplinary oncology team, which opted for a non-surgical, organ-preserving strategy focused on advanced precision radiotherapy.

The patient underwent high-precision radiotherapy using MIOT’s TrueBeam STx system.

Key aspects of the treatment included:

  • Exact tumour location mapped using a CT scan
  • Radiation delivered using IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy)
  • 28 treatment sessions administered over 5–6 weeks to the pelvic area
  • Targeted radiation focused on the tumour while reducing exposure to nearby healthy organs

This approach shrunk the tumour effectively.

Exceptional Clinical Outcome

Follow-up scans conducted at six weeks showed:

  • No residual tumour detected
  • Significant tumour response that allowed the multidisciplinary tumour board to recommend a “watch-and-wait” approach, eliminating the need for surgery

Before

After

As a result:

  • Major surgery was avoided
  • The need for a permanent bowel bag was eliminated
  • The patient recovered well and maintained an excellent quality of life

Long-Term Results

The patient has remained disease-free for six years, demonstrating a durable and successful outcome. This long-term result highlights the effectiveness of precision radiotherapy when delivered by an experienced oncology team and supported by careful follow-up.

Clinical Significance

This case stands as a strong testament to MIOT’s oncologic excellence, showcasing how advanced radiotherapy techniques can:

  • Achieve effective tumour control
  • Preserve organ function
  • Reduce treatment-related lifestyle impact
  • Deliver long-term disease-free survival

Conclusion

This case illustrates how advanced radiotherapy at MIOT International enabled successful treatment of stage III rectal cancer without surgery, preserving both organ function and quality of life. It reinforces the importance of personalised treatment planning, multidisciplinary decision-making, and precision technology in achieving optimal cancer care outcomes.

To know more about the MIOT’s Radiation Oncology Department, visit
https://www.miotinternational.com/centers-of-excellence/miot-institute-of-cancer-cure/radiation-oncology/