Long-term efficacy and progression patterns of paclitaxel plus cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil induction chemotherapy for locally advanced, borderline-resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: results from a phase II NEOCRTEC1601 study

Long-term follow-up confirmed that the OS and PFS were significantly improved in patients who underwent R0 resection compared to those who did not. The 5-year OS rate for patients who achieved R0 resection was 50.0%. R0 resection might be an independent prognostic factor for OS. To further improve the R0 resection rate and prognosis, more effective induction treatment regimens need to be explored.