Response evaluation following neoadjuvant treatment of pancreatic cancer patients

Table 1 Borderline resectable tumors have been defined according to the most recent national comprehensive cancer network guidelines (version 2.2012)

Tumor-associated deformity of the SMV or PV

Abutment of the SMV or PV > 180°

Short-segment occlusion of the SMV or PV amenable to resection and venous reconstruction

Short-segment involvement of the hepatic artery or its branches amenable to resection and reconstruction

Abutment of the SMA < 180°

SMV: Superior mesenteric artery; PV: Portal vein.

Table 2 Some questions towards the aim and the clinical meaning of neoadjuvant treatment in pancreatic cancer

How reliable is traditional imaging assessment of resectability?

Were these tumors resectable even before (radio) chemotherapy administration?

If so, was (radio) chemotherapy useful or did it only delay surgery?

Which exactly is the target of neoadjuvant treatment?