In a nutshell
This study investigated the optimal waiting time between chemotherapy and radiation therapy and surgery in rectal cancer patients. Researchers suggested that a prolonged waiting time improves response to the treatment.
Some background
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy (CRT) is the recommended treatment before rectal surgery. Prior studies suggested that a prolonged waiting time is associated with better response to the treatment and improved survival. However the optimal waiting time between CRT and surgery remains to be determined.
Methods & findings
The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of a prolonged waiting time between CRT and rectal surgery. This study included information on 217 patients with early-stage tumors and 1073 patients with locally advanced (spread to the lymph nodes) tumors.
No difference was observed between longer and shorter waiting times for early-stage tumor patients. In locally advanced tumors an interval of 9-10 weeks was associated with 56% improved response and 94% for an interval of 11-12 weeks in comparison with an interval of 7-8 weeks. No difference was observed for the different time intervals in the overall survival, for early and locally advanced tumors.
The bottom line
This study determined that an interval of 9-12 weeks between surgery and CRT improves the treatment response in locally advanced tumors with no effect on overall survival.
Published By :
Annals of Surgical Oncology
Date :
Jun 01, 2016
