Requirements for improved cancer control led to the testing of the combined-modality therapy for many types of cancer. This review attempts to analyse possibilities of the simultaneous application of both strategies in the treatment of rectal cancer. Postoperative radiochemotherapy has been shown to be effective in rectumcarcinomas. Preoperative combined-modality therapy can ensure downstaging (T3, T4). Operation was carried out 4 to 6 weeks after the end of preoperative therapy.

        Key words: radiotherapy, chemotherapy, radiochemotherapy, carcinoma, rectum.