Hello and thank you for your post,

I am sorry to hear that you are going to start treatment for rectal cancer.

I do not know for sure what will happen when this finishes, this is because your specialist team will have a plan that reflects your situation.

Generally, people need to be scanned after all the treatment has finished. However, to get the most accurate picture you would usually have to wait a few weeks so that the full effect of the treatment can be seen on the scan. This is because some cancer treatments can continue working for a few weeks after it has finished. 

When you have had your scan your case will be discussed at the Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) meeting and the surgeon can decide if surgery is possible. Then an appointment will be made to discuss this with you.

I hope this has helped. You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Take care,

Caroline