Figure 3

Visual aid illustrating two treatment scenarios for patients with UICC stages I to III rectal cancer based on the published results and side effects [[15–18]] . The results of the “new” operation (OP) alone (total mesorectal excision technique) are shown as mild treatment (A) on the left, and the results of the “new” OP plus neoadjuvant short-course (5x5 Gy) radiotherapy are shown as intense treatment (B) on the right. The relative incidence of death, local recurrence and distant metastasis are displayed in the two upper quadrants and important undesired events in the two lower quadrants. The difference of recurrence of the two treatment options is summarized in the central dotted circle followed by a statement about an overall survival benefit.