Targeted therapies for resectable lung adenocarcinoma: ADAURA opens for thoracic oncologic surgeons

Feature Editor Note-The randomized ADAURA trial has shown a significant benefit to receiving third-generation EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitor, osimertinib, after resection of lung cancer with EGFR mutation. The 83% risk reduction in disease recurrence or death reported by the ADAURA trial is practice-changing, as never before has such a magnitude of benefit been reported in any previous adjuvant trial. Although overall survival has yet to be reported, the profound results seen in disease-free survival is likely a signal that a benefit will also be found in overall survival, we eagerly await maturation of these data for confirmation. With the publication of the ADAURA trial, the role of the thoracic surgeon becomes even more important, beyond the surgical care we deliver, as we must now ensure genetic profiling for resected lung cancer, ensure delivery of the appropriate adjuvant therapy (or therapies) if indicated, and we must ensure patient accrual to important future adjuvant and neoadjuvant trials studying such targeted therapies for there is great potential for tremendous benefit as seen in the ADAURA trial. To this end, knowledge of not only the ADAURA trial results but also of its implications becomes crucial. Thus, this expert opinion presented is of timely importance. Dr Jones, who needs no introduction, has assembled an all-star team of authors, including investigators from the ADAURA trial, Drs Wu, Tsuboi, and Herbst, to provide us with important insights regarding this high-impact publication. This is a must-read article, not only for thoracic surgeons but for any medical professional who cares for patients with lung cancer.

Automated summary

The ADAURA trial demonstrated significant benefits of receiving the third-generation EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitor osimertinib after lung cancer resection. The results are expected to impact clinical practice and future directions in adjuvant therapy for lung cancer. The role of thoracic surgeons becomes more crucial in ensuring genetic profiling, appropriate adjuvant therapy, and patient participation in future trials studying targeted therapies.