Can transrectal ultrasound-guided core needle biopsy serve as an accurate diagnostic tool for rectal lesions?

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The widespread use of colonoscopy in recent times has improved the CRC detection rate; approximately 70% of CRCs involves the colon and 30% affects the rectum (1). Endoscopic or surgical resection is essential for confirmation of submucosal (SM) invasion following the diagnosis of rectal cancer.