Efficacy of postoperative chemoradiation for stage IIi low rectal cancer
Zhou, Y.; Hua, Y.; Wang, T.; Chen, S.; Wang, F.-w.; Wang, W.-z.; Zhang, X.-p.
Zhonghua Wei Chang Wai Ke Za Zhi 13(10): 748-750
2010
ISSN/ISBN: 1671-0274 PMID: 20972904 Document Number: 639547
To evaluate the efficacy of postoperative chemoradiation for stage III low rectal cancer. A total of 132 patients with stage III low rectal cancer, including 69 males and 63 females, were identified and divided into two groups: group A received chemoradiation while group B underwent chemotherapy alone. Eighteen patients developed local recurrence after five years of follow-up, with 6 cases(8.3%) in group A and 12(22.2%) in group B(P<0.05). In patients with distant metastasis(n=65), 37(47.4%) were in group A and 28(51.9%) in group B, and the difference was not statistically significant(P>0.05). The 5-year survival rates for group A and group B were 47.4% and 29.6%, respectively(P<0.05). Radiation proctitis was found in 6 cases in group A. Postoperative chemoradiation can reduce local recurrence rate and improve 5-year survival compared to chemotherapy alone. However, it has little effect on the distant metastasis. Postoperative chemoradiation is safe and effective for low rectal cancer.