Journal of cancer research and clinical oncology
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J. Cancer Res. Clin. Oncol. · Oct 2014
Interval between neoadjuvant treatment and definitive surgery in locally advanced rectal cancer: impact on response and oncologic outcomes.
The optimal waiting period between neoadjuvant treatment completion and surgery in locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) is controversial. The specific purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of prolonging this interval on the pathologic response, postoperative morbidity, and long-term oncologic outcomes. ⋯ A modest surgical interval delay (≥6 weeks) did not increase postoperative complications and was identified as a favorable prognostic factor for OS, although no differences were observed in pCR, LC, or DFS. Innovative multidisciplinary strategies incorporating further time extension of the surgical interval can be safely explored.