Preoperative therapy for rectal cancer: Short-course radiation vs. long-course chemoradiation

Abstract: Preoperative radiation therapy for rectal cancer is delivered by two techniques: short-course radiation and long-course chemoradiation. These two approaches cannot be directly compared since patients selected for treatment with short-course radiation commonly included those with cT1–3 disease, whereas chemoradiation is used for cT3 and/or N+ disease. Recent trials of short-course radiation have included patients with cT3 and/or N+ disease as well as delivered sequential or postoperative chemotherapy. This review will evaluate the results of the two preoperative approaches.
Source: Seminars in Colon and Rectal Surgery - Category: Gastroenterology Authors: Tags: Innovative Radiotherapy Options for the Patient with Colon and Rectal Cancer Source Type: research