When after radical prostatectomy radiotherapy should be performed? Comparison of adjuvant and salvage radiotherapy (literature review)

Abstract

The question of optimal times and indications for radiotherapy (adjuvant or salvage) after surgical treatment of prostate cancer remains unanswered. Therefore, studies of this problem are essential and important for clinical practice. The article evaluates the effectiveness of adjuvant radiotherapy compared to salvage radiotherapy in the context of recurrence-free survival and associated adverse events. In 3 randomized clinical trials and meta-analysis, adjuvant radiotherapy did not show improved recurrence-free survival compared to salvage radiotherapy. The choice between adjuvant and salvage radiotherapy should be based on individual patient history and the risk of recurrence. Delayed radiotherapy can help some patients to avoid excessive treatment and associated adverse events.