Survival Impact of Strict Surveillance Strategies following definitive treatment of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma

Abstract

Despite definitive treatment, pancreatic adenocarcinoma carries a high risk of recurrence and poor long-term survival. Post-treatment surveillance practices vary widely with respect to frequency, imaging modality, and use of tumor markers, and there is limited consensus on what constitutes an optimal follow-up strategy. While strict surveillance may allow for earlier detection of recurrence and timely intervention, it also carries potential risks including increased healthcare utilization, patient burden, and anxiety. By systematically evaluating existing evidence, this study aims to assess the survival impact of strict surveillance strategies following definitive treatment of pancreatic adenocarcinoma, identify gaps in the literature, and inform evidence-based follow-up guidelines for this high-risk population.