Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2007; 20(1): 064-072
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-970202
Copyright © 2007 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Radiation Colitis and Proctitis

Gregory D. Kennedy1 , Charles P. Heise1
  • 1Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, Wisconsin
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
28 February 2007 (online)

ABSTRACT

Radiation therapy is commonly utilized as a major component in the treatment of pelvic malignancy. Unfortunately, secondary toxicity to the lower gastrointestinal tract can occur. This most commonly affects the rectum, although injuries to the colon and small intestine are not uncommon. The presentation can be acute or chronic, and different mechanisms are responsible for each. Symptomatology is quite variable but can result in significant compromise for the patient. Numerous preventive and treatment strategies have been applied to this disease process. This article presents a summary of the current knowledge regarding radiation injury to the lower gastrointestinal tract with special emphasis on treatment options for radiation proctitis.

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Charles P HeiseM.D. 

Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics

600 Highland Ave., G4/701A, Madison, WI 53792-7375

Email: heise@surgery.wisc.edu