The Organ Preservation in Rectal Cancer Workshop is a premier educational event hosted by Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, bringing together leading experts in colorectal surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, radiology, pathology, and gastroenterology to advance multidisciplinary care in rectal cancer management.
As treatment paradigms continue to evolve, the workshop aims to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and practical skills needed to safely implement organ-preserving strategies that can improve patient outcomes while maintaining quality of life.
Through a combination of expert-led presentations, multidisciplinary case discussions, and evidence-based learning, participants will explore the latest developments in rectal cancer care, including patient selection for organ preservation, assessment of complete clinical response, MRI-based surveillance, and the implementation of Watch & Wait protocols. The program also highlights current guidelines, long-term outcomes, and real-world experiences, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among specialists involved in the care of patients with rectal cancer.
This workshop is designed to address existing gaps in awareness and clinical practice across the region, empowering healthcare professionals to confidently identify, assess, and monitor suitable candidates for organ-preserving treatment approaches and contribute to the future of personalized rectal cancer care.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Understand the principles and rationale behind organ preservation strategies in rectal cancer.
- Identify appropriate candidates for organ-preserving treatment approaches following neoadjuvant therapy.
- Assess complete clinical response using clinical, endoscopic, and radiological evaluation methods.
- Interpret MRI findings and apply best practices in radiologic surveillance.
- Implement Watch & Wait protocols in suitable patient populations.
- Develop effective surveillance pathways for patients undergoing organ preservation.
- Integrate multidisciplinary perspectives into treatment planning and clinical decision-making.
- Review current evidence, guidelines, and best practices in rectal cancer management.
- Evaluate long-term outcomes associated with organ preservation approaches.
- Explore emerging developments and innovations in personalized rectal cancer care.