Hi there.
The question of pre-op or post-operative chemo+radiation for rectal cancers is still a matter of debate.
For the proponents of pre-op, studies show that this would offer a better rate of local control (controlling disease recurrence) and increasing anal-sphincter preservation. The post-op proponents argue that it is better to give the chemo-radiation post op so that definitive treatment (which is the surgery) will not be delayed. However, these two approaches does not differ in terms of over all survival of patients.
In your situation which is node positive (N2), I believe that a pre-op chemo+radiation will benefit you more in terms of controlling recurrence, and making the surgery easier.
Regards and God bless.
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