Abstract
Background: One reason for early metastasis formation and/or the occurrence of a tumor relapse is the formation of tumor vessels respectively the penetration of tumor cells in the rectal vessels. The tumor growth of rectal cancer depends on the generation of new vessels. Hematogenous metastazation is encouraged by an increasing vascularization and has a negative influence on the relapse-free period and the long-time survival of the patients. Method: Tumor-associated changes of the superior rectal artery and the superior rectal vein have been evaluated on 31 operation-specimens by subtraction angiography. Results: The arteria rectalis superior physiologically divides into two branches of the same diameter. Both branches follow the mesorectum in an almost symmetrical fashion caudad, accompanied by the corresponding veins. Conclusion: The DSA images showed various changes in the mesorectal arteries due to tumor-associated neovascularisation. The artery trees in all specimens were complete, confirming anatomically a total mesorectal excision.
Translated title of the contribution | Tumor angiogenesis in primary rectal carcinoma. Findings of angiographic specimen examinations |
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Original language | German |
Journal | Coloproctology |
Volume | 23 |
Issue number | 3 |
Pages (from-to) | 142-147 |
Number of pages | 6 |
ISSN | 0174-2442 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 06.2001 |
Research Areas and Centers
- Research Area: Luebeck Integrated Oncology Network (LION)