Diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography for lateral lymph node metastasis in rectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Accurate diagnosis of lateral lymph node metastasis is a major concern in rectal cancer. Metastasis is not only a poor prognostic factor, but it can also affect decisions about treatment options, such as preoperative chemoradiotherapy and lateral lymph node dissection. The purpose of this review was to assess the diagnostic performance of magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography for lateral lymph node metastasis in rectal cancer.