Determining the optimal radiation-surgery interval (RSI) for oncologic proctectomy following radiotherapy for rectal...

Preoperative radiotherapy has improved outcomes in rectal cancer patients, however, the optimal interval between radiation and proctectomy is unknown. A review of contemporary literature suggests an 8-12 week interval between radiation and surgery likely improves tumor response rates for rectal cancer patients undergoing proctectomy, which may convey modest improvements in long-term oncologic outcomes. Prolonged radiation-surgery intervals may expose surgeons to pelvic fibrosis, however, which may impact later-term proctectomies and compromise perioperative and oncologic outcomes.