Endoscopic Salvage Following Radiotherapy for Oesophageal Cancer: A Systematic Review.
Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol)Jul 21, 2026 (epub)
H L Keenan, R A Brooks, C M Jones
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review evaluated the safety and efficacy of endoscopic salvage procedures following definitive chemoradiotherapy (dCRT) for locally advanced oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and adenocarcinoma (OAC). It included 45 studies with 1970 lesions, reporting 3-year overall survival rates of 35-81% and 5-year rates of 36-75%. The findings suggest endoscopic salvage is a feasible alternative to oesophagectomy.
Key findings
- 3-year overall survival rates post-salvage ranged from 35-81%.
- 5-year overall survival rates post-salvage ranged from 36-75%.
- Stricture occurred in 0-21% of cases following endoscopic resection.
- Chest pain was reported in 25-54.9% of patients after photodynamic therapy.
Why it matters
Understanding the outcomes of endoscopic salvage procedures can help clinicians make informed decisions for patients with residual or recurrent oesophageal cancer after dCRT, particularly for those unfit for more invasive surgeries.