[Postoperative radiation therapy in lung carcinom].

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Thoracic Surgery
• Radiation Oncology

Context:

• Locally advanced non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) presents heterogeneous characteristics.
• The role of postoperative radiation therapy (PORT) in completely resected pN2 NSCLC patients remains debated.
• Existing studies show conflicting results regarding PORT's impact on survival despite improved local control.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of PORT in pN2 NSCLC patients after complete resection.
• To identify subgroups of patients who may benefit from PORT.
• To address the controversy surrounding PORT's role in non-small-cell lung cancer management.

Summary:

• Retrospective analyses suggest PORT may benefit high-risk pN2 NSCLC patients, including those with RI-resection, bulky, or multilevel N2 involvement.
• While PORT improves local control, its overall survival benefit in completely resected pN2 NSCLC is inconclusive.
• There is a need for prospective, randomized trials to definitively assess PORT's efficacy.

Impact:

• Findings may guide treatment decisions for non-small-cell lung cancer patients with pN2 disease.
• Highlights the need for further research to optimize adjuvant therapy in NSCLC.
• Could refine risk stratification and personalize treatment strategies in thoracic oncology.