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    Description

    Rectal cancer is a type of cancer in the end part of the bowel, just above the anus. Symptoms include rectal bleeding, pain and changes in bowel habit, although the early stages may be asymptomatic. In this procedure, also known as the Papillon technique, an X-ray tube is inserted through the anus and into the rectum. The tube is placed in contact with the tumour and releases low-energy X-ray radiation (brachytherapy). The aim is to kill the cancer cells, shrink the tumour and reduce symptoms.