Adjuvant postoperative radiotherapy for colon carcinoma

BACKGROUND The objective of this report was to review the role of adjuvant postoperative radiotherapy (RT) for patients with adenocarcinoma of the colon. METHODS The authors reviewed the pertinent literature. RESULTS Data suggested that locoregional postoperative RT improves both local control and survival for patients with T4N0–N1 tumors. There also may be a benefit for patients with T3N1–N2 tumors, but the data were equivocal. Whole abdominal RT may result in a similar benefit but is associated with increased toxicity. CONCLUSIONS Postoperative RT should be considered for patients with T4N0–N1 colon carcinoma. Locoregional fields should be used. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society. Adjuvant postoperative radiotherapy probably improves locoregional control and survival for patients with T4 colon carcinoma. The benefit for patients with T3N1–N2 disease is equivocal.