The accuracy of trans rectal ultrasonography (TRUS) in early-stage rectal cancer or benign adenomas

Background: Screening for colorectal cancer in Denmark has resulted in more patients being diagnosed with benign adenomas and early-stage rectal cancer. In general, TRUS is accepted as a good modality for evaluating the above mentioned before deciding on surgery.Objective: To investigate the accuracy of TRUS in a clinical setting at the Region Hospital in Herning, Denmark.Study design: Retrospective cohort study from January 2016 to June 2018.Methods: Quantitative method. The cohort (117 patients) was recruited by searching for specific procedure codes. Data were collected by going through the electronic patient files.Results: TRUS predicted T0, T1, T2 and T3 with an accuracy of 91%, 35%, 43% and 20% respectively and an overall accuracy of 68%. A weighted Cohens kappa value of 0.30 (p.05). TRUS differentiated between T0/T1 with a sensitivity of 70%, specificity of 85% and an accuracy of 85% and kappa value of 0.44 (p.05).Conclusion: TRUS can with great precision establish whether the tumor is benign so correct local treatment can be instituted.