The case for adjuvant chemoradiation for pancreatic cancer

Despite the best current therapies, treatment outcomes in pancreatic cancer continue to be poor. Surgery remains the single most important curative modality for the minority of patients who present with resectable disease and continues to be the cornerstone of curative-intent therapy in such patients. The value of adjuvant treatment in these patients has been the subject of much debate and has led to several phase III randomized clinical trials in both the United States and Europe. Inconsistent trial results as well as trial design critiques have led to differing conclusions with regard to the value of adjuvant chemoradiotherapy. This chapter will critically review the randomized trials that have led to this controversy and establish a rationale for the use of adjuvant chemoradiation in patients with resectable pancreatic cancer. Modern radiotherapy delivery techniques will also be discussed and future trial designs suggested.