Adding CXB to Chemoradiotherapy in early Rectal Adenocarcinoma significantly improves outcomes

Iván R. González, Medical Oncologist at the Comprehensive Oncology Center, Ángeles Hospital Puebla, shared an article by D. Baron on X:

“Interesting results from the Phase III OPERA trial show that adding contact X-ray brachytherapy(CXB) to chemoradiotherapy in early rectal adenocarcinoma significantly improves outcomes.

Key statistics:

• 5-year organ preservation rate: CXB 79% vs. 56% (p=0.004).

• For tumors <3 cm: CXB achieves a 93% preservation rate vs. 54%.

• Complete or near-complete clinical response by weeks 14-24: 92% with CXB vs. 64% (p<0.001).

• 3-year organ preservation: CXB 81% vs. 59% (p=0.003).

Controlled side effects: rectal bleeding (grade 1-2) decreased after 3 years, with no impact on bowel function.

CXB offers new hope for organ preservation, especially in small tumors, with close monitoring advised.”

A phase III randomized trial on the addition of a contact x-ray brachytherapy boost to standard neoadjuvant chemo-radiotherapy for organ preservation in early rectal adenocarcinoma: 5 year results of the OPERA trial.

Authors: D. Baron, et al.