Information for the public

Benefits and risks

Benefits and risks

NICE decided that more evidence is needed about how well preoperative high dose rate brachytherapy works. The 9 studies that NICE looked at involved a total of 1900 patients.

There was some limited evidence that preoperative high dose rate brachytherapy may increase the response of the tumour to treatment and that fewer patients may need a permanent colostomy bag. However, this does not apply to all types of rectal cancer.

The studies showed that the risks of the procedure included:

  • problems with the skin around the rectum and anus

  • inflammation of the rectum

  • infection of the wound or the surrounding tissue

  • problems with wound healing

  • a fistula forming (an abnormal passage between the rectum and the skin)

  • narrowing of the rectum

  • complications that needed more surgery.

If you want to know more about the studies, see the guidance. Ask your health professional to explain anything you don't understand.

  • Information Standard