The role of radiotherapy in the surgical management of gastrointestinal cancer.

Surgery is the main mode of treatment in most gastrointestinal malignancies. Radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy is playing an increasing role as an adjunct to improve local control, survival and palliation. The principles of radiotherapy and the rationale for combination therapy are presented. The current role of radiation therapy in the GI tract is discussed by various sites. New and investigational radiotherapy techniques are outlined.