Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) for Patients With Rectal Cancer

This study will investigate short course radiation therapy using IMRT as an alternative to standard chemo radiation because prior studies have shown that this method of treatment will potentially reduce some fo the side effects of standard treatment, improve quality of life, and help to control the growth of rectal cancer cells. IMRT is a type of radiation that uses computer-generated images to match radiation to the size and shape of the tumor. Since the intensity of each radiation beam can be controlled, the radiation dose can wrap around normal tissue which allows the study doctor to deliver a higher dose of radiation to the tumor with less damage to nearby healthy tissue. The purpose of this research study is to see what impact this treatment will have on quality of life, as well as to see if there are any late side effects that come about after the participant has completed the treatment.