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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2009; 22(2): 084-093
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1223839
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Presacral Tumors: Diagnosis and Management

Imran Hassan1 , E. Dawn Wietfeldt1
  • 1Department of Surgery, Section of Colorectal Surgery, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois
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Publication History

Publication Date:
27 May 2009 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Presacral tumors are uncommon lesions that can be difficult to diagnose because of their nonspecific presenting signs and symptoms. Cross-sectional imaging is essential in evaluating these lesions to determine the optimal surgical approach and the extent of resection. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment as it establishes the diagnosis and prevents the adverse consequences associated with malignant degeneration and secondary bacterial infection. The outcomes for patients with benign presacral tumors are favorable. Although there have been substantial improvements in the prognosis of patients with malignant presacral tumors, the development of newer adjuvant therapies are likely to further improve the oncologic outcomes of malignant presacral tumors such as chordomas and sarcomas.

KEYWORDS

Presacral tumors - management - diagnosis - surgery - prognosis

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Imran HassanM.D. 

Department of Surgery, Section of Colorectal Surgery, SIU School of Medicine

701 North Rutledge, P.O. Box 19638, Springfield, IL 62794

Email: ihassan@siumed.edu

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