Ultrasound Staging of Rectal Cancer

Endorectal ultrasound (ERUS) is a primary imaging technique in the preoperative evaluation of patients with rectal adenocarcinoma. The purpose of this report is to review ultrasound staging with emphasis on technique and potential pitfalls. The role of ultrasound in multimodality staging and surveillance is also explored. An awareness of inherent imaging challenges and implications may optimize staging accuracy and resultant management of rectal cancer patients.