Hypofractionation in radiation therapy and its impact

Lech Papiez, Robert Timmerman

Research output: Contribution to journalShort surveypeer-review

25 Scopus citations

Abstract

A brief history of the underlying principles of the conventional fractionation in radiation therapy is discussed, followed by the formulation of the hypothesis for hypofractionated stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). Subsequently, consequences of the hypothesis for SBRT dose shaping and dose delivery techniques are sketched. A brief review of the advantages of SBRT therapy in light of the existing experience is then provided. Finally, the need for new technological developments is advocated to make SBRT therapies more practical, safer, and clinically more effective. It is finally concluded that hypofractionated SBRT treatment will develop into a new paradigm that will shape the future of radiation therapy by providing the means to suppress the growth of most carcinogen-induced carcinomas and by supporting the cure of the disease.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)112-118
Number of pages7
JournalMedical physics
Volume35
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 2008

Keywords

  • Ablative radiation therapy
  • Hypofractionation
  • SBRT

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biophysics
  • Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging

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