Aims: Radiotherapy (RT) reduces local recurrence in rectal cancer but the optimal treatment schedule is unknown. Relevant questions in designing optimal therapy are set out. This review identifies evidence that influences current practice and shapes future trials in treatment of operable rectal cancer. Methods: PubMed and MEDLINE search. Results: RT reduces local recurrence and pre-operative treatment is superior to post-operative treatment. Longer interval to surgery and concurrent chemotherapy are associated with greater downstaging, although influence on sphincter preservation and survival is minimal. Short-course RT (SCRT) demonstrates lower recurrence, but with long-term dysfunction and minimal survival benefit. The role of SCRT should be re-evaluated to encompass new criteria/areas. Conclusion: SCRT should be used selectively rather than as a blanket treatment policy. SCRT compounds functional morbidity caused by mesorectal excision which may be excessive in some patient groups, especially early-stage rectal cancer or frail elderly patients. RT and local excision may be a feasible surgical alternative in these groups. Alternatively, SCRT and delayed surgery may be a future alternative to current long-course chemoradiotherapy. As survival is only marginally affected despite low local recurrence, future trials should aim to address metastatic disease. End points which incorporate function and quality of life must be used.

Keywords:
Rectal cancer, Radiotherapy, Chemotherapy, Adjuvant treatment
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