Radiation therapy in stage II and III rectal cancer

Over the past 25 years, significant advances have been made in the management of patients with rectal cancer. Phase III studies have shown the efficacy of postoperative radiation therapy and chemotherapy in improving local control and survival of patients with resected stage II and III disease. Data from the randomized German CAO/ARO/AIO-94 trial of preoperative versus postoperative chemoradiation have provided a strong rationale and support for the use of preoperative chemoradiation in the treatment of patients with clinical stage II and III rectal cancer. Current phase III studies are evaluating novel combinations of chemotherapy and targeted agents with radiation therapy.