Presurgical radiation and chemotherapy in preparation for thoracic tumor resection

Purpose of review This article aims at describing the role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, radiation therapy as well the novel immunotherapy and targeted therapy in thoracic oncology with focus on anesthetic considerations of such treatments for the surgical patient. Recent findings In recent years, immune check point inhibitors have changed the landscape of thoracic oncology treatment. In this review, we summarize the key studies that have been fundamental in this change. Summary Rather than a comprehensive review, the purpose of this work is to provide the reader with an overview of the most common neoadjuvant regimens used in current practice, with the corresponding most prevalent adverse effects as it pertains for patients with esophageal and lung cancer, malignant pleural mesothelioma and mediastinal tumors. Considerations relevant to the anesthesiologist, including specific toxicities related to each treatment type, and the impact of each treatment type on perioperative outcomes and complications will be discussed.