Overview

This study evaluates whether images taken using a photon counting detector CT scanner (PCD-CT) can determine the growth of rectal cancer as well as, or better than, MRI for the management of patients with rectal cancer.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult patients 18 to 99 years of age
• Patients with proven rectal cancer clinically referred for staging pelvic MRI and contrast-enhanced CT of the abdomen and pelvis (for evaluation of liver and peritoneal disease)
• Endoscopic or imaging report that tumor is 2 cm or larger
• Patients who are able and willing to sign the informed consent
• Negative pregnancy test if subject is of child-bearing age (females of child-bearing potential will be screened for pregnancy using a urine pregnancy test, which will be administered by the unit study coordinator at no cost to the patient)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Minors less than 18 years old
• Known mucinous adenocarcinoma (may not enhance well)
• Patient unable to provide written informed consent
• Pregnancy
• estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) ≤ 60
• History of prior moderate or severe contrast reaction including unresponsiveness, severe respiratory distress, convulsions, arrhythmia, cardiopulmonary distress, progressive angioedema, laryngeal edema, dyspnea, bronchospasm, symptomatic tachycardia, symptomatic bradycardia, hypotension, hypertensive crisis
• Any history of premedication prior to iodinated contrast
• Hip replacement/prosthesis
• Patients that consent to participation but do not undergo their clinically indicated MRI scanning for any reason (e.g., bad IV, infiltration, reaction, change in indication)