In a nutshell
This study investigated the effectiveness of hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (HSR; high doses of radiation given in fewer sessions than conventional radiotherapy) in advanced colorectal cancer. Researchers suggested that HSR is associated with improved outcomes and manageable side effects.
Some background
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the US. Often the cancer has spread at diagnosis (20%). Surgery is the standard treatment for these patients. However, not all patients are eligible for surgery.
More recently, methods such as HSR became available to treat patients with inoperable disease. Prior studies showed improved outcomes in patients with advanced colorectal cancer treated with HSR. However, the right dosage of HSR is still unknown.
Methods & findings
This study includes information about 48 patients. All patients had advanced colorectal cancer and received HSR. The average follow-up time was 15 months.
A dosage of more than 100 Gy (the measurement unit of radiations) was associated with a 1-year local control of 94.4% and a 1-year survival of 100%.
One patient who also received targeted therapy died of intestinal bleeding. No other severe side effects were seen.
The bottom line
This study showed that HSR dosage of 100 Gy or more improves outcomes of inoperable colorectal cancer.
The fine print
This study included a small number of participants and had a short follow-up. Larger and longer-term studies are needed.
Published By :
Surgical oncology
Date :
Jan 04, 2019
