Sigmoid Take-off, New Rectum Definition

The diversity of definitions for the rectosigmoid junction is becoming a major obstacle to the standardization of optimal treatment of rectal cancers. The aim of this study was to determine the average height of the sigmoid take-off and its association with individual factors.
Patients diagnosed with rectal and sigmoid colon cancer in our center from January 2010 to December 2018 were retrospectively enrolled in the cancer group. The results of 200 controls without colorectal disease were also reviewed (normal group). The distance of different landmarks and margins of cancer from the anal verge were retrieved from computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and endoscopy findings.